Binghamton, New York – Frigid air and dangerously cold wind chills are expected to impact central New York and northeast Pennsylvania this weekend, prompting an Extreme Cold Watch for the entire region.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, temperatures today and Friday will remain relatively mild for early February, with highs generally in the 20s across most locations. Forecasters note that these readings may feel comparatively “warm” ahead of a much colder air mass arriving late Friday night.
By Saturday and Sunday, high temperatures are forecast to drop sharply into the single digits to lower teens, with overnight lows falling well below zero in many inland areas. Wind chills are expected to plunge even further, with subzero values likely, especially during the overnight and early morning hours.
The coldest conditions are expected along and near major travel corridors such as I-81, I-86, NY-17, and NY-13, where exposure to wind may intensify the cold for drivers, first responders, and outdoor workers. The National Weather Service warns that prolonged exposure could lead to frostbite on exposed skin in a short period of time.
City-specific forecasts show highs this weekend near 8 to 10 degrees in Syracuse, around 11 degrees in Binghamton, and single digits in Utica and Rome. Wind chills could dip into the negative teens to negative 20s, particularly Saturday night into early Sunday.
Residents are urged to prepare now by limiting time outdoors, dressing in layers, and ensuring pets and vulnerable populations have adequate warmth. Drivers should also check vehicles for cold-weather readiness, especially when traveling during early morning hours.
The Extreme Cold Watch highlights the potential for life-threatening cold, and additional advisories or warnings may be issued as confidence increases.
