Syracuse, N.Y. – Severe thunderstorms are expected to sweep across Central and Western New York through Saturday evening, bringing the risk of damaging wind gusts, hail, and power outages to millions.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 8 p.m. EDT for 15 counties including Onondaga, Broome, Steuben, and Oneida. Storms could produce wind gusts up to 60 mph, isolated hail, and brief heavy rainfall leading to localized flooding.
Cities such as Syracuse, Binghamton, Ithaca, and Elmira are within the watch zone. Residents should be prepared for downed trees, possible power disruptions, and rapidly changing road conditions. The heaviest storms are expected between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., especially along the I-81 and Route 17 corridors.
Emergency officials advise residents to secure outdoor objects, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor local alerts. Lightning and low visibility could pose added dangers for drivers.
This marks the region’s second severe thunderstorm watch this month, following a June 13 system that caused scattered outages and damage in Chenango County.
The thunderstorm threat will taper off later tonight, but additional weather statements may follow depending on storm development.
