The northern part of New York State is facing a snowstorm caused by the lake effect, complicating travel and disrupting residents’ daily activities this weekend. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a warning is in effect from 10:00 PM Saturday to 6:00 AM Monday.
The most affected counties will be Oswego, Jefferson, and Lewis, where heavy snow accumulation and strong winds are expected. In the Tug Hill Plateau, snowfall could range between 9 to 18 inches (23 to 46 cm), with gusts up to 35 mph (56 km/h), reducing visibility and making travel hazardous.
What is the lake effect, and how does it impact the weather?
The lake effect occurs when cold air passes over warmer waters, forming snow bands that impact specific areas unevenly. This means some regions will experience heavy snowfall, while nearby areas may see little accumulation. This phenomenon will be the primary cause of complications in the coming days.
Hazardous travel conditions: warnings for drivers
Authorities have warned of extremely difficult travel conditions due to the combination of snowfall, strong winds, and poor visibility. The NWS recommended that drivers take extra precautions, carry an emergency kit in their vehicles, and avoid unnecessary travel.
The emergency kit should include:
- Blankets
- Flashlights
- Extra batteries
- Non-perishable food
Emergency crews are already working to clear main roads, but snow could accumulate faster than it can be removed, leading to temporary road closures.
Most affected areas and snowfall forecasts
The Tug Hill Plateau will be the storm’s epicenter, with snow accumulations exceeding 18 inches (46 cm). Oswego, Jefferson, and Lewis counties will also face significant snowfall, particularly near lakes Ontario and Erie.
In these areas, the intensity of the wind and the duration of the snow bands will play a key role in the final accumulation. Meanwhile, regions further from the lakes may experience lesser impacts.
Challenges from strong winds and uneven accumulations
In addition to snow, the predicted wind gusts of up to 35 mph (56 km/h) will further complicate the situation. According to the NWS, this could lead to whiteout conditions, where visibility is near zero, making driving and cleanup efforts more challenging.
Authorities have strengthened emergency measures, deploying additional cleanup crews and setting up shelters for stranded individuals. Residents are also advised to check their supplies of food, water, and medications in case of disruptions to essential services.
Monitoring and potential updates
Although the NWS warning ends Monday morning, conditions may remain unstable in some areas. Depending on the storm’s evolution, additional alerts may be issued.
Authorities urged the public to stay informed through official channels and follow safety recommendations. The storm highlights the importance of being prepared for winter challenges in New York, where the lake effect can produce dangerous snowfall within hours.
Collaboration among the community, authorities, and emergency teams will be key to minimizing risks and ensuring everyone’s safety.
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