Massena, NY – Residents across the St. Lawrence Valley should prepare for dangerous winter travel conditions tonight as a band of locally heavy lake effect snow shifts south into northern New York, bringing significant snowfall and bitter cold by Wednesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for portions of the St. Lawrence Valley through 7 a.m. Wednesday, with snow totals reaching up to 9 inches in the hardest-hit areas. The heaviest snowfall is expected overnight as lake effect bands intensify and settle over the region.
Forecasters say blowing snow and poor visibility will make travel hazardous at times, especially on untreated roads. Drivers should expect slick conditions, reduced visibility, and sudden whiteout scenarios under heavier snow bands. Outside of the warning area, snowfall totals of 1 to 3 inches are generally expected.
Light snow may also impact parts of Vermont overnight, though the most intense snowfall is expected to remain focused across northern New York, particularly near and north of Massena. Those traveling late tonight or early Wednesday should allow extra time and be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions.
In addition to snow, dangerously cold air will settle in behind the system. Wind chills are forecast to drop below zero, reaching the negative single digits to teens by Wednesday morning, increasing the risk of frostbite with prolonged exposure.
Officials urge residents to limit unnecessary travel overnight, dress in layers, and keep emergency supplies in vehicles if travel is unavoidable.
