Binghamton, N.Y. – Roads across the Southern Tier are turning slick right now as freezing rain and wet snow spread north, threatening the Tuesday morning commute on I-81, I-86 and Route 17 within the next hour.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, a wintry mix began moving into northeast Pennsylvania around 6 a.m. Tuesday and will continue expanding north and east through mid-morning. Ice accumulation between a glaze and 0.25 inches is possible in parts of the Southern Tier and the Catskills before temperatures gradually rise and change precipitation to plain rain this afternoon.
Statewide, the highest ice totals are expected east of I-81, including Delaware County and areas near Monticello, where up to a quarter inch of ice could cling to trees and power lines. That amount is enough to weigh down branches and cause scattered power outages. In Broome County, including Binghamton, a light glaze may develop on bridges and overpasses, especially along I-81 and Route 17 during the early commute.
Farther north toward Syracuse, Utica and Boonville, colder air will support mainly snow through mid-morning. One to two inches could accumulate in higher elevations before a transition to rain later Tuesday. Drivers along I-90 and I-88 should expect reduced visibility and slushy stretches.
PennDOT and NYSDOT crews are treating major roadways, but officials urge drivers to slow down, allow extra stopping distance and avoid sudden braking. Charge devices in case isolated outages develop where ice thickens.
Conditions improve from south to north this afternoon as temperatures climb above freezing, but slick spots may linger in higher elevations into midday. Additional advisories could be issued if ice totals increase.
