BINGHAMTON, NY — Lake effect snow is intensifying across central New York today and will persist through Friday night into early Saturday, according to the National Weather Service in Binghamton. The heaviest snow bands will impact areas north of I-90, particularly near Syracuse, Utica, and Boonville, where 6 to 12 inches of accumulation are expected.
Further south, including Auburn, Cortland, and Cooperstown, totals will range from 2 to 6 inches, while areas around Binghamton, Ithaca, and Elmira may see 1 to 2 inches, mainly from weaker snow bands and scattered squalls.
Forecasters warn that wind gusts between 30 and 40 mph will accompany the snowfall, creating blowing and drifting snow, especially in open areas. This will lead to periods of near-whiteout conditions, particularly along I-81 and I-90. Visibility could drop rapidly, making travel dangerous at times.
“Snow squalls could develop during the day Friday,” meteorologists cautioned. “Even brief bursts may cause sudden slick spots and hazardous visibility.”
Advisories and Warnings:
- Lake Effect Snow Warnings: Onondaga, Oneida, northern Madison counties.
- Winter Weather Advisories: Steuben, Chenango, and Otsego counties.
Expected Snowfall Totals (Through Saturday Afternoon)
- Syracuse–Utica Corridor: 8–12 inches
- Hamilton–Auburn: 4–6 inches
- Cooperstown–Norwich: 2–3 inches
- Ithaca–Binghamton–Elmira: 1–2 inches
- Scranton–Wilkes-Barre: <1 inch
Peak Winds: 35–40 mph across much of central New York through Friday.
Travel Impact Timeline:
- Thursday Evening–Friday Morning: Heaviest snow begins; blowing snow develops.
- Friday Daytime: Squalls likely, gusts up to 40 mph.
- Friday Night–Saturday Morning: Snow tapers; slick roads remain.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel during snow band passage, use extreme caution on highways, and monitor updates as new squalls may form quickly.
