Caroga Lake, New York – A fast-moving winter system is expected to bring accumulating snow and hazardous travel to parts of upstate New York beginning Wednesday afternoon, with conditions deteriorating quickly during the evening commute. Slick roads and reduced visibility could create difficult travel through Thursday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Albany, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect for northern Fulton County from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday afternoon. Snow totals between 3 and 6 inches are possible, with snowfall rates reaching up to 1 inch per hour at times Wednesday afternoon into Wednesday evening. Wind gusts could reach 35 mph, leading to blowing snow and rapidly changing road conditions.
Communities near Caroga Lake are expected to see some of the most persistent snowfall, particularly on higher terrain and less-traveled roads. Bridges, overpasses, and untreated secondary roads are likely to become slick, increasing the risk of spin-outs and delays. Local road crews may struggle to keep up during periods of heavier snowfall.
Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra stopping distance, and avoid unnecessary travel during the Wednesday evening and Thursday morning commutes. Pedestrians should use caution on sidewalks, stairs, and driveways, which may become icy beneath the snow.
The winter storm watch remains in effect through Thursday afternoon, and it may be upgraded as confidence increases. Additional advisories or warnings could be issued as the system approaches.
