Watertown, NY – Northern New York is bracing for a potentially disruptive start to the Thanksgiving holiday as a Winter Storm Watch takes effect late Wednesday night through Friday evening for Jefferson and Lewis Counties, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Buffalo.
Forecasters warn that heavy lake effect snow could produce over 7 inches of accumulation in some areas, particularly in the most persistent snow bands. Winds may gust as high as 40 mph, causing blowing and drifting snow and creating whiteout conditions that could make travel hazardous or even life-threatening.
The watch coincides with one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and officials urge drivers to prepare for slippery roads, low visibility, and rapidly changing conditions.
“Whiteout conditions are possible and may make travel treacherous,” the NWS stated, noting that the snow could severely impact travel plans across the region through Friday evening.
Localized snow squalls could also lead to sudden drops in visibility on highways such as I-81 near Watertown and Lowville. Residents are urged to monitor forecast updates and consider adjusting travel plans to avoid the worst of the storm.
