New York – Multiple Lake Effect Snow Warnings and a Winter Storm Watch are in effect across parts of northern and central New York, with heavy snowfall and dangerous travel conditions expected through Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, persistent lake effect snow bands could produce 8 to 14 inches of snow, with snowfall rates reaching 2 to 3 inches per hour in the most intense bands, particularly Saturday night into Sunday morning.
A Lake Effect Snow Warning is in effect for Jefferson and Lewis counties from 1 p.m. Saturday until 1 p.m. Sunday, with the heaviest snow expected across southern Jefferson and far western Lewis counties, including the Watertown and Lowville areas.
In Oswego County, a Lake Effect Snow Warning begins 7 a.m. Friday and continues until 4 p.m. Sunday. Forecasters expect two rounds of heavy snow, with 6 to 10 inches possible Friday through this evening, followed by another 8 to 14 inches late Saturday through Sunday after a brief lull in snowfall.
A Lake Effect Snow Warning remains in effect until 7 a.m. Friday for Wayne and northern Cayuga counties, where up to 2 additional inches are possible in persistent bands. A Winter Storm Watch is also in effect for those counties from late Saturday night through Monday morning, with 7 inches or more possible in prolonged lake effect bands.
Officials warn that travel will be very difficult, with deep snow-covered roads, rapidly changing visibility, and near-whiteout conditions in heavier bands. The impacts are expected to affect Friday commute periods and weekend travel, especially along rural roads near Lake Ontario.
Because lake effect snow falls in narrow, shifting bands, conditions may change dramatically over short distances. Travelers are urged to monitor forecasts closely and be prepared for sudden deteriorations.
Residents are encouraged to submit snow reports through official National Weather Service channels and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense snowfall.
