Syracuse, NY – The National Weather Service in Binghamton has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for parts of central New York beginning 4 a.m. Wednesday, followed by a Winter Storm Watch extending late Wednesday night through Friday morning as strong lake-effect snow bands are expected to develop.
According to the NWS, areas including Onondaga, Madison, and southern Oneida counties—covering cities such as Syracuse, Oneida, and Utica—should prepare for 2 to 5 inches of snow Wednesday, with a light glaze of ice possible during periods of freezing rain.
Heavier snow is likely later in the week as lake-effect snow intensifies. Meteorologists warn that 7 inches or more could fall in localized areas, especially downwind of Lake Ontario. Winds could gust up to 40 mph, producing blowing and drifting snow and reducing visibility.
The system will first bring a mix of snow and light freezing rain Wednesday morning, affecting both the morning and evening commutes. Conditions are expected to worsen Thursday into Friday as colder air moves in, turning roads slick and potentially hazardous.
The NWS advises drivers to slow down, monitor forecasts, and check travel conditions through 511NY before heading out. Blowing snow and icy patches could linger into Friday morning.
