Syracuse, NY – Intense lake effect snow bands are hammering areas just north of Interstate 90 early Wednesday, with snowfall rates reaching up to 2 inches per hour and rapidly deteriorating travel conditions before the morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, a Lake Effect Snow Warning remains in effect until 8 a.m. for Onondaga and Madison counties. The heaviest snow is falling north of I-90, where communities like Cicero, Clay, Brewerton, Bridgeport, and Lakeport could see 5 to 10 inches. In contrast, Syracuse and areas south of the interstate are expected to pick up just 1 to 3 inches.
Drivers along I-81, I-90, and Route 31 face rapidly changing visibility, with conditions shifting from clear to near whiteout within minutes under persistent snow bands. These bursts can quickly coat roads, especially in northern suburbs and into Madison County near Oneida.
Officials urge delaying travel until after 8 a.m. if possible. If travel is necessary, reduce speed and carry emergency supplies. Conditions can vary sharply over short distances during lake effect events.
Snow will taper to lighter flurries by mid-morning, but slick roads may linger into the commute. Additional alerts could be issued if bands redevelop later today.
