New York – Snow clouds thicken fast this morning as a quiet lull gives way to a long-duration winter storm. Cold air pours across Lake Ontario, and by tonight, snow will fall hard and sideways. Travel plans across Central New York are already at risk.
The National Weather Service in Binghamton has issued a Winter Storm Warning from 7 p.m. Monday through 7 a.m. Wednesday for Onondaga, Madison, and Oneida counties, including Syracuse, Utica, Rome, Oneida, and Hamilton. Snow totals of 1 to 2 feet are expected, with localized amounts approaching 3 feet where lake-effect bands persist.
Conditions will deteriorate rapidly this evening. Snowfall rates may reach 1 to 2 inches per hour, with bursts near 3 inches per hour late tonight into Tuesday morning. Gusts up to 50 mph will whip snow into whiteouts, sharply reducing visibility on open roads.
Travel could become very difficult or impossible. I-81, I-90 (Thruway), Route 12, and Route 20 are especially vulnerable as blowing snow and drifting intensify. To be fair, conditions may briefly ease, but bands are expected to redevelop quickly. Plan ahead and avoid unnecessary travel.
Power interruptions are possible as gusty winds stress tree limbs. Emergency officials urge drivers to carry winter survival kits and check road conditions before heading out.
Looking ahead, snow continues through Tuesday night before gradually tapering early Wednesday. Bitter cold settles in behind the storm, raising concerns for flash freezing as plowed roads refreeze. New Year’s Eve Wednesday looks cold and calmer, but winter remains firmly in control heading into New Year’s Day 2026.
