Binghamton, New York — A sharp turn toward dangerously cold weather is expected across central New York and northeast Pennsylvania as an Arctic cold front moves through late Friday, bringing frigid temperatures and very low wind chills into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, temperatures Wednesday and Thursday will remain slightly below normal, with highs generally in the 20s. Scattered lake-effect snow showers are possible today and Thursday, mainly along and north of the New York Thruway, though most areas will see limited accumulation.
Conditions will change rapidly Friday night, as reinforcing Arctic air pours into the region. Light snow becomes more likely Friday, followed by sharply colder temperatures and increasing winds. By Friday night into Saturday morning, wind chills are forecast to drop to −15 to −25 degrees, creating dangerous cold exposure conditions.
The coldest period is expected Saturday night into Sunday morning, when temperatures fall into the single digits or lower teens, with persistent winds keeping wind chills well below zero. These conditions increase the risk of frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.
Travel impacts may be limited by snowfall amounts, but cold-related hazards could affect motorists along Interstate 81, U.S. Route 11, and the New York Thruway, especially for drivers stranded or experiencing vehicle issues. Reduced vehicle performance and rapidly cooling road surfaces are also possible.
Communities including Binghamton, Syracuse, Utica, Scranton, and Wilkes-Barre should prepare for the coldest stretch of weather so far this season. Outdoor activities should be limited, pets brought indoors, and vulnerable populations checked on.
While temperatures begin to moderate early next week, the National Weather Service advises residents to prepare now for prolonged cold, dress in layers, and monitor official updates.
Forecast updates and potential cold-related advisories will be posted at weather.gov/bgm.
