New York – A powerful and highly localized lake effect snow event is expected to bring extreme snowfall rates and dangerous travel conditions to parts of north-central New York through early Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 7 a.m. EST Saturday for Wayne and northern Cayuga counties. Forecasters warn that additional snow accumulations of 1 to 2 feet are expected, with localized totals up to 3 feet possible in the most persistent snow bands.
The heaviest snowfall is forecast to develop later Friday afternoon and continue through tonight, with snowfall rates of 3 to 5 inches per hour possible at times. The most extreme impacts are expected in far northeastern Wayne County and far northern Cayuga County, while much of the remainder of the counties may see little to no snow.
Officials warn that travel may become very difficult to nearly impossible within the most intense lake effect bands. Near-zero visibility, rapidly accumulating snow, and deep snow-covered roads are expected where bands stall or repeatedly move over the same locations.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that lake effect snow can vary dramatically over short distances, with severe winter conditions occurring just miles away from dry pavement. Motorists are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and remain alert for sudden changes in visibility and road conditions.
Residents are encouraged to submit snowfall reports through official weather service channels or social media when it is safe to do so.
For commuters, emergency responders, and overnight workers, this warning signals the potential for significant travel disruptions through the overnight hours and into early Saturday morning.
