Residents of the Finger Lakes are bracing for bitter cold and significant lake effect snow as an arctic air mass settles over the region through early next week. The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued Winter Weather Advisories for Northern Cayuga, Wayne, and Monroe counties, warning of treacherous travel conditions and dangerously low wind chills.
The advisories go into effect late Sunday night and extend through Monday evening. Total snow accumulations are expected to range from 3 to 8 inches, with the heaviest snow likely to fall in narrow bands influenced by the lakes.
The arrival of this arctic air marks the coldest conditions in more than five years, with temperatures plunging into the single digits and wind chills dropping as low as -25 degrees by Tuesday. NWS forecasters are urging caution, particularly during the Monday morning and evening commutes, when snow-covered and icy roads will make travel hazardous.
Along with widespread snow, lake effect bands off Lake Ontario and Lake Erie are expected to intensify. Snowfall totals could reach 4 to 8 inches in areas like northern Cayuga and Wayne counties, while localized amounts may exceed 12 inches in areas under persistent lake effect bands.
In addition to snow, dangerously cold temperatures will dominate the week. Highs on Monday and Tuesday are expected to remain in the single digits to low teens, with overnight lows dipping below zero in many areas. The NWS anticipates issuing cold weather advisories for parts of the region as wind chills reach life-threatening levels.
Residents are urged to prepare for extreme weather by ensuring their homes are properly heated, avoiding prolonged exposure to the cold, and traveling with emergency supplies in their vehicles.
What NWS alerts come along with extreme cold?
The National Weather Service has redefined its cold weather alerts to enhance public understanding and safety.
An Extreme Cold Watch is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are possible, advising individuals to prepare for potential exposure. An Extreme Cold Warning indicates that such conditions are expected or occurring, necessitating immediate protective actions to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
In contrast, a Cold Weather Advisory is issued for seasonably cold temperatures or wind chills that are less severe but still warrant caution, reminding the public to dress appropriately and cover exposed skin when outdoors.
Governor Hochul urges preparation for frigid cold
Governor Kathy Hochul has directed state agencies to prepare for extreme cold and lake effect snow forecasted to hit New York starting Sunday. Temperatures as low as -25°F and heavy snowfall are expected in regions near Lakes Erie and Ontario through midweek, with snow also impacting Long Island and New York City.
State resources, including plows, emergency responders, and utility crews, are on alert. Residents are advised to monitor conditions, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow safety guidelines for heating, power outages, and driving.
For the latest forecast check out the FingerLakes1.com Weather Center.
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