snowbanks

Snowbanks are piles of snow created when winter precipitation accumulates and is relocated by snowplows, wind, or shoveling. They commonly form along roadways, sidewalks, and building sites where snow is cleared or deposited. In urban areas they can persist for weeks after storms, particularly where daytime temperatures hover near freezing and nighttime lows allow consolidation.

Snowbanks vary in height, width, and density; fresh snow is light and fluffy, but as it is compacted and subjected to freezing conditions it becomes denser and icier. They may include ice, road salt residues, gravel, and debris. Wind can fill low areas and create drifts that shape the banks.

Impact and safety: Snowbanks influence traffic flow by narrowing travel lanes and obscuring sightlines at intersections and driveways. They can conceal curbs, drainage inlets, and pedestrians. Large banks may pose collapse hazards for pedestrians and can become slippery, particularly during sun exposure and thaw cycles.

Management and environmental considerations: Municipal snow removal aims to clear essential corridors while minimizing disruptions. Collected snow is often transported to designated storage or disposal sites. The process can create environmental concerns, including chloride and pollutant runoff, increased heating from solar absorption, and land-use impacts. Some communities design dedicated snow piles with access routes and drainage to reduce hazards.

Cultural and regional notes: Snowbanks are a common feature in cold climates, particularly in areas with seasonal snowfall. Their persistence length depends on climate, weather patterns, and municipal practices.