Binghamton, New York – Rain will overspread much of central New York by mid-morning Wednesday, but colder air locked in across the Mohawk Valley could turn that rain into accumulating snow along I-90 before the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, a stalled frontal boundary will bring widespread precipitation from late morning through tonight. Most areas, including Binghamton, Elmira and Scranton, are expected to see mainly rain with totals between 0.25 and 0.50 inch. Ponding on roadways is possible, especially along NY-17 and low-lying stretches of I-81.
Farther north into Syracuse, Utica and the Mohawk Valley, temperatures will remain cold enough for periods of wet snow. Snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches are possible, with the highest totals near Utica and along I-90. Slushy roads may develop late this afternoon into the evening as snowfall rates briefly increase.
In Cortland and northern Onondaga County, rain may mix with and change to snow toward sunset, creating slick conditions on untreated roads. While widespread icing is not expected, melting snow combined with rainfall could cause minor rises on creeks and rivers. Ice movement on area waterways may also lead to localized ice jam concerns.
Drivers should plan for reduced visibility during heavier bursts of rain or snow and allow extra time for travel this evening. Conditions improve gradually overnight, though wet roads may refreeze where temperatures dip toward freezing late tonight.
