Syracuse, NY – A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect for Onondaga, Madison, and Oneida Counties from Thursday afternoon through Saturday morning, as forecasters warn of heavy lake effect snow and gusty winds that could create whiteout conditions and impact Thanksgiving holiday travel across Central New York.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, snow totals could exceed 7 inches in the most persistent lake effect bands, with wind gusts up to 40 mph leading to blowing and drifting snow. Areas from Syracuse to Utica and Boonville may see the worst impacts late Thursday night through Friday morning.
Forecasters caution that visibility could drop sharply, and road conditions may deteriorate quickly as snow bands shift. Travelers are urged to monitor weather updates and plan ahead for possible delays during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
The combination of snow, strong winds, and cold temperatures could also lead to isolated power outages and hazardous driving conditions on open and elevated roads.
Motorists should prepare for rapidly changing conditions, and anyone traveling for the holiday should check 511ny.org for real-time road and weather updates.
