Binghamton, NY – Drivers across Binghamton and the Southern Tier of New York should prepare for rapidly changing roadway conditions Monday afternoon as snow squalls move through the region, followed by dangerous Arctic cold overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, scattered snow showers and snow squalls are expected to develop after noon Monday, beginning in western areas and shifting east through the afternoon and early evening. These squalls can produce brief but intense snowfall, with visibility dropping to near zero in minutes, especially along I-81, I-86, NY-17, and Route 12.
Forecasters warn that snow squalls are particularly dangerous for drivers because roads can go from wet to snow-covered almost instantly. Gusty winds up to 35 mph may accompany the squalls, further reducing visibility and creating sudden slick spots on bridges and overpasses.
Snowfall amounts will generally be light—up to around 1 inch—but impacts could be significant due to the rapid onset and sudden visibility loss. The highest risk window for travel disruption runs from midday through about 8 p.m., depending on location.
After the snow squalls move out, Arctic air will settle in overnight, with temperatures dropping into the low single digits. Wind chills between 5 and 20 degrees below zero are expected by early Tuesday morning, prompting Cold Weather Advisories across parts of the Southern Tier and northeast Pennsylvania from 10 p.m. tonight through 10 a.m. Tuesday.
Drivers are urged to slow down immediately if a snow squall is encountered, avoid sudden braking, and consider delaying travel during the most active periods. Emergency officials also recommend keeping winter survival supplies in vehicles in case of delays.
Conditions are expected to improve Tuesday afternoon, but officials stress that Monday afternoon and evening present the greatest travel risk.
