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Summary:

Central and Western New York are bracing for a major lake effect snowstorm lasting from today through New Year’s Eve. Snowfall rates could reach 1-2 inches per hour, with winds up to 75 mph in some areas. Travel is expected to be severely impacted, with whiteout conditions and the potential for downed trees and power lines. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings and is urging residents to avoid forested areas due to the risk of falling trees.

News Article:

Lake Effect Snowstorm to Hammer Central and Western New York, Bringing Up to 3 Feet of Snow

Syracuse, N.Y. – Residents of Central and Western New York are bracing for a powerful lake effect snowstorm expected to bring up to 2 to 3 feet of snow in some areas between today and New Year’s Eve. The National Weather Service is warning of “difficult to impossible” travel conditions due to heavy snowfall rates and strong winds.

The storm, fueled by moisture from Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, is predicted to intensify after dark tonight, with the worst conditions expected on Tuesday. Snowfall rates could reach 1 to 2 inches per hour, coupled with wind gusts of up to 50 mph in Central New York and a potentially hurricane-force 75 mph in the North Country.

“Whiteout conditions are expected starting this afternoon and will make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening,” warned the National Weather Service. Areas south of Watertown and Fort Drum, particularly in the Tug Hill plateau, are forecast to receive the highest snowfall totals, potentially reaching 3 feet.

Syracuse could see as much as 18 inches of snow by Wednesday morning, with a foot of that falling in a concentrated 12-hour period on Tuesday. The combination of heavy snow and strong winds could lead to downed trees and power lines, exacerbating travel disruptions.

“Avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees,” urged the Buffalo office of the National Weather Service, citing the risk of trees uprooted by the wind in soil already softened by recent rain and snowmelt.

Winter storm warnings are in effect for counties downwind of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. Forecasters emphasize the difficulty in predicting precise snowfall totals due to the narrow and shifting nature of lake effect snow bands.

This storm follows a recent period of unsettled weather in the region, including 6 to 10 inches of snow last Friday and freezing rain on Sunday. The North Country and Capital Region could still see more ice accumulation this morning. Residents are urged to monitor weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel.

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