Residents in the Finger Lakes region are bracing for lake effect snow expected to impact travel beginning tonight. Meanwhile, areas in Western and Northern New York continue to experience significant snowfall, complicating conditions for travelers. But it won’t just stop with lake effect snow tonight and Monday. The wintry pattern continues with more snow expected multiple times this week.
NWS Alerts in Finger Lakes
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for Wayne, Northern Cayuga, Southern Cayuga, and Onondaga counties from 10 p.m. tonight through 10 a.m. Monday.
Forecasts predict total snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches in the most persistent bands, with hazardous conditions likely during the Monday morning commute. Residents are urged to drive cautiously as snow-covered roads and reduced visibility are expected.
Western New York: Prolonged Snowfall
Western New York remains under intense lake effect snow conditions, particularly south of Buffalo. Areas such as Chautauqua and southern Erie counties are predicted to receive an additional 1-2 feet of snow by Monday, with snowfall rates of 2-3 inches per hour in some areas.
While conditions are expected to ease slightly on Monday, travel remains challenging, especially along the lake shore and in the Buffalo Southtowns, where a secondary snow burst from Lake Huron may enhance snowfall.
Northern New York: Heavy Accumulations
In Northern New York, Jefferson County and parts of the Tug Hill region continue to be buried under intense lake effect snow. Snowfall rates of up to 4 inches per hour near Watertown have made travel nearly impossible.
Additional accumulations of 2-3 feet are expected today in Jefferson County, with lighter but still significant snow in surrounding areas like Oswego and northern Lewis counties. Snow bands are anticipated to shift southward tonight, bringing lighter snow to areas southeast of Lake Ontario.
The Week Ahead: More Snow and Arctic Chill
Looking forward, a cold, westerly flow will maintain lake effect snow through Tuesday. Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties could see an additional 3-6 inches of snow Monday night into Tuesday, while snow bands near Rochester may bring periodic light snow showers.
Midweek will bring widespread snow as a strong low-pressure system passes north of the Great Lakes. Snow will likely transition to gusty winds and lake effect snow showers late Wednesday into Thursday. Temperatures are forecast to remain below average, with highs in the upper 20s to low 30s through the week. By Friday and Saturday, highs may stay in the 20s, and lows could drop to single digits in some areas.
Travel Advisory
For those traveling into areas already under heavy lake effect snow, expect prolonged disruptions, particularly in Western and Northern New York. Monitor 511NY for the latest road conditions, and plan extra time for commutes. Snow tires, emergency kits, and cautious driving will be essential in navigating these challenging conditions.
Stay tuned to local updates and National Weather Service advisories to remain informed about changing conditions. Check out the FL1 Weather Center for the latest 7-day forecast, too.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].