Binghamton, New York – Bitterly cold Arctic air continues to grip central New York today and into the weekend, prompting ongoing cold weather alerts and creating hazardous conditions across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect for northern Oneida County until 10 a.m. Friday, while a Cold Weather Advisory covers the remainder of the region through 9 a.m. Sunday. Overnight temperatures dropped into the 5 below to 10 below zero range, with isolated areas in northern Oneida County falling as low as 15 below zero.
Wind chills early Friday morning plunged between -5 and -25 degrees, especially along exposed areas and higher elevations. Forecasters say northwest winds of 5 to 15 mph will continue to drive dangerously low wind chill values through the morning hours.
In addition to the extreme cold, lake effect snow showers, snow squalls, and flurries will continue across portions of Onondaga, northern Madison, and southern Cayuga counties. Snow accumulations of 1 to 4 inches are expected through early Saturday morning, with the highest totals near persistent lake effect bands.
Roadways including Interstate 81, Interstate 90 (New York Thruway), and major state routes may experience slick spots and sudden visibility reductions, particularly during snow squalls. Travel impacts may be brief but intense where squalls develop.
The National Weather Service stresses that prolonged exposure to these conditions can lead to frostbite in as little as 30 minutes. Residents are urged to dress in layers, limit time outdoors, and ensure pets and livestock are adequately sheltered.
Students, commuters, and early morning workers should use caution when traveling and monitor updated forecasts, as minor shifts in wind direction could alter snow and wind chill impacts through the weekend.
