Newark, New York — A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through noon Wednesday for portions of Wayne and northern Cayuga counties, where persistent lake effect snow is creating hazardous travel conditions during the morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, narrow but intense lake effect snow bands off Lake Ontario are producing additional snowfall of 2 to 4 inches, with the greatest accumulations expected in northeast Wayne County and far northern Cayuga County. Cities and villages including Newark and Fair Haven remain under the advisory.
Snowfall rates may vary sharply over short distances, a hallmark of lake effect events. Drivers may encounter rapidly changing visibility and road conditions, especially along corridors such as Route 104, NY-31, NY-370, and NY-414. Untreated roads, bridges, and secondary highways are most likely to become slick as snow bands shift.
The National Weather Service warns that even brief periods under a heavier snow band can quickly reduce visibility and coat road surfaces, increasing the risk of accidents. While snowfall amounts are not extreme, the localized nature of lake effect snow makes travel conditions unpredictable.
The hazardous conditions are expected to primarily impact the Wednesday morning commute, particularly for drivers traveling near the Lake Ontario shoreline and inland snowbelt areas. Commuters, students, and delivery drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra travel time.
Forecasters expect lake effect activity to gradually weaken later this morning as winds shift and snow bands lose organization. Conditions should improve by midday, though lingering slick spots may persist on untreated roads.
Residents are encouraged to submit snow reports to the National Weather Service and continue monitoring updates at weather.gov/buf. Travelers can also check real-time road conditions through 511NY before heading out.
