Syracuse, NY – Residents across Central New York are preparing for worsening road conditions tonight and into Monday as a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 7 p.m. Monday, with lake-effect snow expected to intensify and spread across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, total snow accumulations of 3 to 7 inches are expected, primarily across higher terrain in Cortland, Madison, Onondaga, Southern Cayuga, and Tompkins counties. Winds may gust as high as 45 mph, creating blowing snow and reduced visibility at times.
Mixed rain and wet snow this afternoon are forecast to transition into narrow, more organized snow bands, which will bring heavier bursts of accumulation tonight into Monday. These bands may shift quickly, creating sharp gradients in snowfall—conditions can change from moderate snow to dry pavement within just a few miles.
The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning commute, with slick and snow-covered roads likely in higher elevations and rural corridors. Blowing snow may further reduce visibility on exposed stretches of roadways.
Motorists are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and prepare for sudden changes in road conditions. The National Weather Service warns that visibility can drop rapidly within lake-effect bands, especially during bursts of heavier snow.
Drivers can obtain updated road conditions by dialing 511, and officials encourage residents to stay alert to shifting weather patterns as the snow bands evolve through Monday.
