Syracuse, New York – A high-impact lake-effect snow event is intensifying across central New York this evening, with snowfall totals of 18 to 24 inches expected in and around the Syracuse area through Wednesday night.
A strong westerly flow over the Great Lakes is locking in a persistent lake-effect snow band east and southeast of Lake Ontario. Snow is expected to ramp up rapidly this evening, with the most intense snowfall occurring overnight and continuing at times through midweek. According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, snowfall rates could exceed 1 inch per hour at times, producing near-whiteout conditions during the heaviest bands.
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for Onondaga, Madison, and Oneida counties from 7 p.m. this evening through early Wednesday morning. Syracuse, Cicero, Manlius, Fayetteville, and eastern suburbs are positioned in the favored zone for prolonged heavy snow. Winds gusting 35 to 45 mph will lead to blowing and drifting snow, sharply reducing visibility on major routes including I-81, I-90, and Route 20.
Travel is expected to become dangerous quickly tonight and remain difficult through Wednesday, especially during peak snowfall periods. According to emergency managers, conditions may deteriorate faster than plows can keep up, particularly during overnight hours. Power outages are possible where heavy, wind-driven snow loads trees and lines.
Farther south toward Binghamton and the Southern Tier, totals drop off significantly, generally ranging from 3 to 6 inches. Forecasters note some uncertainty remains with the exact placement of the heaviest snow band, but confidence is high that central New York will see a significant and disruptive event.
Residents are urged to avoid non-essential travel, prepare emergency kits, and plan for extended snow removal operations through midweek.
