If you thought winter was taking a break, think again—lake-effect snow is about to kick into high gear, bringing heavy snowfall, whiteout conditions, and messy roads from tonight into Saturday morning.
Some areas could get up to a foot of snow, while others just a few miles away might see only a light dusting. That’s the unpredictable nature of lake-effect snow—it hits hard in some spots while skipping others entirely.
The National Weather Service has issued Lake Effect Snow Warnings for Onondaga, Oneida, and surrounding counties, warning that travel will be difficult, visibility could drop suddenly, and roads will get slick fast.
If you have plans this weekend, prepare for delays and changing conditions.
When and Where Will the Snow Hit?
Syracuse and Surrounding Areas
- When: Snow starts this evening and ramps up overnight.
- How Much: 8 to 11 inches expected, with even more possible north of the Thruway.
- Winds: Gusts up to 35 mph, which means blowing and drifting snow.
- What to Expect: Sudden bursts of heavy snow and near-zero visibility could make travel dangerous.
Utica and Rome
- When: Snow moves in late tonight and continues into Saturday morning.
- How Much: 6 to 12 inches, with some areas possibly seeing over a foot.
- Winds: Gusts up to 30 mph, making visibility worse and causing drifting snow.
- What to Expect: One town could be buried, while another just a few miles away gets hardly anything.
Why Lake-Effect Snow is So Unpredictable
Unlike a regular snowstorm, lake-effect snow is a different beast altogether.
- It can dump several inches of snow per hour in one area while leaving another mostly untouched.
- Whiteout conditions can develop in seconds, making it nearly impossible to see the road ahead.
- Snowfall rates of 2 inches per hour or more could quickly turn roads into a mess.
How Will This Impact Travel?
- Friday Night: Snow-covered roads, reduced visibility, and slow-moving traffic. Major roads like I-81, the Thruway, and Route 12 will likely be affected.
- Saturday Morning: Plows will be working, but blowing snow will make it tough to keep roads clear.
- Saturday Afternoon: Things should improve, but side streets and less-traveled roads will likely remain slick.
If you must drive, slow down, leave extra space, and keep an emergency kit in your car with blankets, snacks, and a flashlight.
How to Stay Safe
- Stay Home if You Can – If you don’t need to be out, stay inside and let the storm pass.
- Check Road Conditions Before Driving – Call 511 or check local traffic updates before heading out.
- Drive Carefully – Go slow, give extra space between vehicles, and watch for ice.
- Stock Up on Essentials – Have food, water, and flashlights ready in case of power outages.
- Check on Family and Neighbors – Elderly or homebound neighbors might need help shoveling or getting supplies.
Lake-effect snow is unpredictable, and conditions can change fast. Some areas will see a foot of snow, while others may get just a few inches.
If you don’t have to go out, stay warm and enjoy a cozy weekend indoors. If you do need to travel, drive carefully and be prepared for sudden changes in conditions.
