Oswego, NY – Travel conditions are expected to become extremely hazardous across portions of central New York today as an intense lake-effect snow band impacts Oswego County and nearby areas, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo.
Forecasters report that southeast of Lake Ontario, a powerful lake-effect snow band is drifting south across Oswego County this morning, with the heaviest snowfall focused on southern Oswego County and potentially far northern Cayuga County later today. Snowfall rates within the most intense portion of the band are expected to reach 3 to 5 inches per hour, creating whiteout conditions.
Total snowfall through Friday evening is forecast to reach 12 to 18 inches in the hardest-hit areas near Oswego and Pulaski. Severe travel impacts are expected, particularly along Interstate 81, State Route 104, and other north–south roadways as the band oscillates across the region.
West of the main band, lake-effect snow off Lake Erie will weaken throughout the day across the Boston Hills and western Southern Tier, with snowfall rates near 1 inch per hour early, diminishing as the day progresses.
The National Weather Service warns that road conditions in Oswego County may deteriorate rapidly with little warning. Snow-covered roads, drifting snow, and near-zero visibility will make travel dangerous or impossible at times.
Lake-effect snow will continue into Friday night, with snowfall rates off Lake Ontario gradually decreasing from 2–4 inches per hour to 1–2 inches per hour overnight. Severe travel impacts are expected to persist in Oswego County into the overnight hours before slowly improving Saturday morning.
Motorists are strongly urged to avoid unnecessary travel in the warned areas. Those who must travel should carry winter survival gear and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
Snow impacts during overnight hours may especially affect long-haul drivers, emergency responders, and early Saturday commuters.
