The Finger Lakes forecast is turning unsettled as multiple systems move through the region this week. The National Weather Service says strong southwest winds and lake effect rain are expected through midweek, with another round of rain and gusty winds likely by Wednesday.
Today: Gusty winds and scattered showers
A cold front is sweeping across the region today, bringing:
- Widespread rain showers, especially east and southeast of Lake Ontario
- Southwest wind gusts up to 50 mph, especially near lakeshores and inland toward the St. Lawrence Valley
- A chance for isolated thunderstorms in the eastern Finger Lakes, where instability is highest
A Wind Advisory is in effect for several counties, including parts of the northern Finger Lakes, through 10 p.m.
Tonight: Lake effect rain develops
As colder air settles in behind the front, lake effect rain is expected southeast of Lake Ontario. Forecast models suggest:
- Light rain accumulations, with localized totals up to 0.33 inches
- Possible rumbles of thunder east of the lake
- Cooling temperatures aloft, which could support more organized lake response overnight
Tuesday: Breezy but cooler
Tuesday brings a brief break in the widespread rain. However:
- West winds gusting 25–35 mph will persist, especially near Lake Ontario
- Spotty lake effect showers may continue in parts of the eastern Finger Lakes
- Skies will remain mostly cloudy, with highs in the mid to upper 40s
Midweek: Another storm system arrives
On Wednesday, a new low-pressure system will push into the region:
- A warm front will lift northward, bringing renewed rain chances
- Winds will intensify again, with post-frontal gusts over 35 mph
- Cooler northwest flow will follow, bringing lake effect showers, especially Wednesday night into Thursday
- Some snow may mix with rain over higher elevations late Wednesday night
Looking ahead: A pattern shift brings colder air
By Friday and into the weekend, a broader weather pattern shift will take place:
- Multiple waves of cold air will arrive, supporting wintry conditions early next week
- Showers may persist, with rain mixing with snow over hilltops and higher terrain
- Conditions are expected to stay unsettled but seasonally cool
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