The National Weather Service has placed several winter weather alerts across upstate and central New York due to an impending lake-effect snow event expected to begin late Wednesday and persist through Friday morning. The areas most impacted will be those situated east of Lake Ontario, where conditions could lead to treacherous travel due to heavy snowfall, strong winds, and rapidly changing visibility.
Affected Areas under Weather Alerts
Lake-Effect Snow Warning (valid from 1 AM on Thursday, December 11, to 7 AM on Friday, December 12):
- Wayne County
- Northern Cayuga County
- Onondaga County
- Madison County
- Southern Oneida County
Included Cities and Towns: Newark, Fair Haven, the Syracuse metro area, North-central Madison County, Southern Oneida County (south of Utica, Rome, New Hartford).
Winter Weather Advisory (effective until 1 AM on Thursday, December 11):
- Madison County
- Onondaga County
- Southern Oneida County
What to Expect During This Weather Event
Snowfall Accumulation and Conditions
- Wayne and northern Cayuga counties can expect total snowfall ranging from 5 to 10 inches.
- Onondaga, Madison, and southern Oneida counties are likely to receive between 6 and 12 inches.
- The Mohawk Valley will see lighter snowfall, with predictions of 2 to 5 inches.
- Within the most persistent snow bands, snowfall rates may escalate to 1 to 2 inches per hour.
- Wind gusts can reach up to 40 mph, contributing to blowing and drifting snow.
- Heavy snow will likely fall in narrow bands, leading to rapid visibility changes.
Travel Implications
- Travel is expected to be difficult and potentially hazardous during peak times such as Wednesday evening, Thursday morning, and Thursday evening commutes.
- Visibility may be significantly reduced, raising safety concerns.
- Road conditions can change drastically over short distances, with clear driving conditions turning dangerous in a matter of moments.
Safety Precautions for Residents and Travelers
- Drivers are urged to slow down and exercise caution when on the road.
- It’s vital to be prepared for sudden weather changes, particularly in areas influenced by lake-effect snow.
- If you plan to travel, ensure your vehicle is stocked with emergency essentials such as a flashlight, non-perishable snacks, and water.
- Stay informed about road conditions and closures by calling 511 for updates.
As the winter weather unfolds, residents in affected areas should remain vigilant and prepared to navigate challenging conditions. Keeping an eye on local forecasts and adhering to safety guidelines will be essential in ensuring safety during this snow event.
