Watertown, New York – Travel across northern New York is growing increasingly difficult as snow continues Saturday and a more dangerous lake-effect setup looms heading into early next week, particularly east of Lake Ontario.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for Oswego, Jefferson, and Lewis counties until 1 a.m. Sunday, with an additional 3 to 6 inches of snow expected. Forecasters warn that the focus then shifts to a Winter Storm Watch from Sunday evening through Wednesday afternoon, when prolonged lake-effect snow could drop 7 inches or more in the most persistent bands.
The greatest impacts through tonight are expected across eastern Oswego County, far southern Jefferson County, and southwestern Lewis County. From Sunday night into midweek, the Tug Hill Plateau is at highest risk for heavy snow, blowing and drifting, and near-whiteout conditions as winds gust up to 40 mph.
Key routes including Interstate 81, Route 104, and Route 177 could become snow-covered with rapidly changing visibility, especially during heavier lake-effect bursts. Officials warn that hazardous conditions may significantly affect the Monday morning and evening commutes, with deep drifts forming on exposed roads.
Drivers are urged to slow down, carry emergency supplies, and avoid unnecessary travel during heavier snow bands. Additional warnings may be issued as confidence increases in the lake-effect event, with hazardous conditions potentially lasting through midweek.
