residents in minnesota and michigan asked to turn down thermostats to conserve natural gas. meanwhile, snow squalls ripping through the north eeeast bringi whiteout conditions. this time lapse video showing a squall through new york city. lake effect snow creating blizzard-like conditions in upstate new york. dropping two to three inches of snow per hour in buffalo where temperatures dipped to negative 35. near rochester a 21-vehicle wreck brought this highway to a standstill. a snow squall to blame for this 27-vehicle pile-up near reading, pennsylvania. >> the snow is being driven perfectly horizontal. we couldn't see anything. >> reporter: first responders forced to brave the treacherous conditions. >> the temperature not only affects the manpower but also the hose lines freeze up instantly. >> reporter: firefighters in indiana covered in ice as they