The Finger Lakes region is bracing for a blast of winter weather over the next 48 hours, with lake effect snow and strong winds expected to create hazardous travel conditions across several counties.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Wayne County from 4 p.m. Thursday to 1 p.m. Friday, with total snowfall expected between 4 and 9 inches in the most persistent lake effect bands. Winds could gust up to 45 mph, increasing the likelihood of downed tree branches and isolated power outages.
Meanwhile, Northern Cayuga County is under a Lake Effect Snow Warning from 4 p.m. Thursday through 1 a.m. Saturday. The area is expected to receive between 7 and 14 inches of snow, with winds also gusting up to 45 mph. Similar conditions will affect Onondaga County, where snowfall totals could reach 11 inches, particularly north of the New York State Thruway.
Conditions will rapidly deteriorate Thursday evening as lake effect snow bands intensify. The storm system moving across the Great Lakes is expected to usher in a strong cold front, shifting rain to snow as temperatures drop sharply. The highest snow totals will likely be seen in areas east and southeast of Lake Ontario, including Oswego County, where a Lake Effect Snow Warning remains in effect through early Saturday. Total snowfall there could reach 16 inches in the hardest-hit areas.
Travel is expected to be difficult throughout the region, particularly along major routes such as the Thruway (I-90), I-81, and Routes 104 and 31. Drivers are urged to use caution, as rapidly changing conditions could reduce visibility and create slick roadways.
Looking ahead, forecasters are monitoring another storm system expected to impact the area this weekend, bringing the potential for additional snowfall or mixed precipitation. Residents should stay updated with the latest forecasts and prepare for challenging winter conditions in the days ahead.
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