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Central New York is experiencing significant snowfall due to a heavy lake effect snow event. Onondaga County is expected to see its heaviest snowfall tonight and into Saturday (January 4). The National Weather Service has issued lake effect snow warnings lasting until Sunday evening for most of Central New York.
According to the National Weather Service, areas in northern Cayuga, Oswego, and southern Lewis counties could see snow accumulations of two to three feet. Wayne County is also under a warning, expecting one to two feet of snow. Winds gusting up to 40 mph will create dangerous whiteout conditions, making travel extremely difficult.
The lake effect snow is expected to be heavy at times near Syracuse, with snowfall rates of an inch or more per hour. The snow bands are expected to shift north, impacting Oswego, Northern Oneida, and Southern Lewis Counties, with another one to two feet of snow expected in these areas.
Governor Kathy Hochul has mobilized state resources in preparation for the significant snowfall and strong winds. She urged New Yorkers to stay alert and monitor their local forecasts. The state's emergency management is in contact with local counterparts and is prepared to facilitate requests for assistance.
Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, and stay informed about rapidly changing conditions.
