Binghamton, New York – A period of hazardous cold is expected to affect central New York and northeast Pennsylvania during the Feb. 8–14 timeframe, with the highest risk concentrated early in the period and impacting travel corridors including Interstate 81, Interstate 88, and Route 17.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, portions of upstate New York are included in a high risk zone for below-normal temperatures from Feb. 8 through Feb. 10, with surrounding areas under a moderate risk through Feb. 11. The outlook indicates strong confidence that temperatures will fall well below seasonal averages during this period.
The hazardous temperature outlook follows ongoing cold conditions across the region. The National Weather Service office in Binghamton reports that very cold air remains in place, with wind chills recently ranging from -5°F to -25°F across the forecast area. While a brief moderating trend is expected early in the week, forecasters note another surge of arctic air is likely to arrive next weekend and persist into the early part of the following week.
Forecast high temperatures across cities including Binghamton, Ithaca, Cortland, and Oneonta are expected to remain mostly in the teens and 20s, with overnight lows frequently dropping into the single digits. Wind exposure near open stretches of I-81 and I-88 may further reduce apparent temperatures, particularly during overnight and early morning hours.
Officials caution that prolonged exposure to extreme cold can lead to frostbite and hypothermia in a short period of time. Cold temperatures may also impact vehicle reliability, outdoor infrastructure, and heating demand.
Commuters, students, and outdoor workers are urged to prepare for extended cold conditions, dress in layers, and allow extra travel time during the coldest parts of the day. Forecasters emphasize that confidence in the colder-than-normal pattern is high heading into the second week of February.
