New York wakes up under a deep winter grip, with snow bands stretching across lake country and visibility dropping fast near daybreak. Headlights glow through blowing flakes, and plow lines cut sharply into fresh drifts. Conditions are evolving quickly, especially east of the lakes, where travel can deteriorate in minutes.
The National Weather Service in Buffalo warns that heavy lake effect snow continues through tonight, with the most intense snowfall focused east and southeast of Lake Ontario. Oswego County, including areas near Fulton and Pulaski, could see an additional 8 to 18 inches of snow by early Monday. Snowfall rates may become intense at times, producing near-whiteout conditions.
Off Lake Erie, snow persists across the higher terrain of the western Southern Tier, including areas near Jamestown and Ripley, where 4 to 6 inches of additional snow is possible. Elsewhere around Buffalo, Rochester, and Niagara County, lighter totals of 1 to 3 inches are expected, though brief bursts could still slow travel.
Drivers should plan for hazardous travel along I-81, I-90, and Route 104, especially within persistent snow bands. Roads may quickly become snow-covered, and visibility can drop below a quarter mile. Allow extra time, carry winter safety supplies, and avoid unnecessary travel during peak snow bursts.
By Monday, lake effect snow gradually weakens, but lingering snow showers may continue into the morning commute. Cold air remains locked in, allowing snow to stay powdery and easily blown by passing vehicles and gusty winds.
Looking ahead to midweek, temperatures begin to moderate, setting the stage for a possible rain-snow mix later in the week. That transition could lead to slushy roads by day and refreezing at night, just as holiday travel ramps up across New York.
