The first widespread snowstorm of the season is underway across central New York and northern Pennsylvania this morning, bringing a steady blanket of snow and slick travel conditions through the day.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for nearly all counties in the region, except for Sullivan County, NY, where a Winter Storm Warning has been issued. Snow began before dawn and will continue through early afternoon, tapering off from west to east between noon and 4 p.m.
Most locations are expected to see 3 to 6 inches of accumulation, with the heaviest totals occurring in higher elevations and in the warning area. Snowfall rates may briefly exceed one inch per hour during the late-morning commute, reducing visibility and quickly covering untreated roads.
Drivers across the I-81 corridor, Binghamton, Ithaca, and Cortland should allow extra travel time, maintain safe distances, and be cautious of snow-covered or slushy roads. Even after the steady snow ends, light snow and flurries could persist into the evening, especially across central New York.
Temperatures will remain near or below freezing throughout the day, preventing much melting. Winds will also increase slightly this afternoon, creating localized blowing snow in open areas.
The storm marks the first significant winter event of the season for much of the Southern Tier, and forecasters urge residents to prepare for difficult travel conditions this morning and early afternoon.
After the system moves out tonight, cold and dry weather will settle in midweek, with lows dropping into the teens and additional light snow possible late in the week.
