Syracuse, New York – A dangerous and potentially life-threatening lake-effect snowstorm is set to hammer central New York beginning this evening, with heavy snow, whiteout conditions, and near-blizzard impacts expected through early Wednesday.
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from 7 p.m. tonight through 7 a.m. Wednesday for Onondaga, Madison, Northern Oneida, and Southern Oneida counties. Snow totals of 12 to 24 inches are expected across the Syracuse area, with localized amounts potentially exceeding two feet in the most persistent lake-effect bands. According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour are likely, with brief bursts up to 3 inches per hour possible overnight into Tuesday morning.
Strong west to northwest winds gusting up to 50 mph will create widespread blowing and drifting snow. Visibilities may drop below one-quarter mile for extended periods, producing frequent whiteout conditions. According to the National Weather Service, occasional blizzard conditions are expected, making travel very difficult to impossible at times.
The most severe impacts are expected tonight through Tuesday evening, directly affecting the Tuesday morning and evening commutes. Major roadways including I-81, I-90, Route 20, and Route 5 may become impassable during the heaviest snow bands. Gusty winds may also bring down tree branches, leading to scattered power outages.
Emergency managers strongly discourage non-essential travel. If travel is unavoidable, drivers should carry emergency supplies including food, water, warm clothing, and a flashlight. Residents are urged to prepare for prolonged snow removal operations and rapidly changing conditions through midweek.
Lake-effect snow is expected to gradually weaken late Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, though hazardous conditions may linger even after snowfall rates decrease.
