Northern New York – A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for portions of northern New York, with heavy snow and hazardous travel expected from 7 p.m. Wednesday through 7 p.m. Thursday, according to the National Weather Service in Burlington.
The warning covers Northern Franklin, Northern St. Lawrence, and Southwestern St. Lawrence counties, including the communities of Massena, Malone, Ogdensburg, Potsdam, Gouverneur, Norfolk, and Fort Covington. Snowfall totals are forecast to range between 5 and 9 inches.
Forecasters said rain will develop Wednesday evening, then change to snow by midnight as colder air moves into the region. Snow is expected to become heavy at times Thursday morning, before tapering to lighter snow showers by Thursday evening.
The National Weather Service warned that roads, bridges, and overpasses will become slick and hazardous, making travel very difficult, particularly during the Thursday morning and evening commutes. Conditions may deteriorate rapidly as snowfall intensifies.
In addition to accumulating snow, bitterly cold wind chills near 10 below zero are expected by Thursday afternoon, increasing the risk of frostbite and compounding dangers for stranded motorists or those traveling long distances.
Officials urged drivers to avoid unnecessary travel and to carry emergency supplies, including food, water, and a flashlight, if travel cannot be postponed. Motorists are encouraged to check the latest road conditions through 511NY before heading out.
Residents should continue to monitor updates from the National Weather Service as timing and snowfall intensity may vary across the warning area.
