Utica, NY – A powerful winter storm is set to impact Oneida County this weekend, bringing heavy snow, ice, and strong winds that could cause power outages and hazardous travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from noon Saturday to 7 p.m. Sunday for Northern and Southern Oneida counties, including Utica, Rome, and Boonville. Snow will begin this afternoon, with accumulation rates reaching 1 inch per hour at times. Total snow and sleet accumulation could reach 5 to 9 inches, with up to one-third of an inch of iceexpected.
By early Sunday morning, snow will transition to sleet and freezing rain, continuing throughout the day. Winds gusting up to 40 mph Sunday afternoon could exacerbate power outages and tree damage. Travel conditions will be treacherous, with roads becoming nearly impassable in some areas.
Residents should prepare for potential outages and avoid unnecessary travel. If travel is unavoidable, authorities recommend keeping an emergency kit with a flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle.
For the latest road conditions, dial 511 for updates.
