Oswego, NY – A State of Emergency is in effect today for the City of Oswego as heavy lake-effect snow creates hazardous road conditions, prompting officials to urge residents to stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary.
According to the Oswego County Sheriff’s Office, the emergency declaration was issued to allow Department of Public Works (DPW) crews to clear snow more effectively and to limit traffic during dangerous conditions. Authorities are asking drivers to avoid all nonessential travel until roadways can be safely cleared.
The Oswego City Police Department said the emergency is directly related to intense lake-effect snowfall impacting visibility and traction across the city. Officers warned that road conditions can change rapidly and may worsen with little notice.
“If travel is unavoidable, slow down, leave plenty of space between vehicles, and expect significantly longer stopping distances,” police advised in a public alert. Officials emphasized that even experienced winter drivers may encounter sudden whiteout conditions and snow-covered roads.
Oswego is located in Oswego County, north of Syracuse, and is frequently impacted by lake-effect snow events due to its proximity to Lake Ontario. These systems can produce localized but intense snowfall rates, overwhelming road crews in a short period of time.
Residents are encouraged to monitor official city and county channels for updates on when the State of Emergency may be lifted. Emergency responders also ask residents to keep roadways clear to allow plows and emergency vehicles to operate safely.
Anyone who must travel is urged to allow extra time, carry emergency supplies, and notify others of their route and destination.
