A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for Cayuga, Ontario, Seneca, Schuyler, Wayne and Yates counties as a storm system moves across the region Thursday, bringing a mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain.
The advisory remains in place until 4 p.m. Thursday. The National Weather Service has warned of accumulating snow and ice creating hazardous road conditions, with morning travel expected to be particularly difficult. Up to 3 inches of snow could fall, especially at higher elevations. Ice accumulations of up to one-tenth of an inch are also expected.
Precipitation will start as snow but will change to sleet and freezing rain during the morning. As temperatures rise above freezing by early afternoon, much of the freezing precipitation will turn to rain in lower-lying areas. Wind gusts could reach up to 35 mph, potentially reducing visibility and causing blowing snow.
Drivers are urged to exercise caution and reduce speeds, particularly on bridges and overpasses where ice can form more easily. The hazardous conditions could affect both the morning and afternoon commutes.
Later in the day, a Wind Advisory will take effect at 7 p.m. for Cayuga, Ontario, Wayne and neighboring counties. The advisory will remain in place until 10 a.m. Friday. West winds of 20 to 30 mph are expected, with gusts up to 50 mph. The strong winds may down tree limbs, resulting in isolated power outages. Motorists, especially those driving high-profile vehicles, should take extra precautions on the roads.
Following the cold front Thursday night, lake effect snow is expected to develop near Oswego County. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for that area, beginning late Thursday night and continuing through Saturday afternoon. Snowfall in the most persistent lake effect bands could reach 6 to 12 inches. Winds will remain strong, creating areas of blowing and drifting snow that could significantly reduce visibility.
Conditions are expected to improve temporarily Saturday afternoon before another weather system moves in later that night. Widespread moderate snowfall is forecast across the region Saturday night into Sunday morning as a fast-moving storm system passes through. Additional lake effect snow showers may follow into Sunday night, with minor accumulations possible.
Residents are advised to stay updated on changing weather conditions and to report snow and ice accumulation through the National Weather Service’s social media channels. Road conditions can be monitored through local transportation websites and by calling 511.
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