Winter Weather Warning

Central New York is bracing for a significant winter storm this weekend, with the National Weather Service (NWS) issuing a winter weather advisory for the region. The storm, expected to bring heavy snowfall and strong winds, is set to impact travel and daily activities, prompting officials to urge residents to prepare for hazardous conditions.

Winter Storm Warning: What to Expect

The NWS has forecasted that the storm will hit Central New York from Saturday evening, February 8, through Sunday morning, February 9. Snowfall is expected to begin around 4 p.m. on Saturday and continue until 7 a.m. on Sunday, with total accumulations ranging from 4 to 7 inches in most areas. Syracuse is predicted to receive around 5 inches of snow, while some parts of Oswego and Oneida counties could see up to 7 inches due to lake-effect snow.

Snowfall rates are expected to reach up to an inch per hour at times, creating challenging conditions for drivers and pedestrians alike. Winds gusting as high as 35 mph will exacerbate the situation, causing blowing snow and snow drifts that could reduce visibility and make roads treacherous.

Lake-Effect Snow Adds to the Challenge

In addition to the winter storm, a lake-effect snow warning is in effect for parts of Oswego and Oneida counties until 10 a.m. on Saturday. Persistent lake-effect snow bands are expected to drop an additional 4 to 7 inches in Oswego County and 1 to 5 inches in Oneida County. These localized snow bands can produce intense snowfall rates, further complicating travel and snow removal efforts.

Preparations Underway

Local authorities are taking no chances with this storm. The New York City Office of Emergency Management has activated its Winter Weather Emergency Plan and issued a travel advisory for Saturday night into Sunday. Mayor Eric Adams emphasized that city agencies are ready to respond to the storm, ensuring the safety of residents during the expected freezing temperatures and snowfall.

The Department of Sanitation has also issued a Snow Alert, the highest level of snow-fighting notification, beginning at 1 p.m. on Saturday. Thousands of staff will work 12-hour shifts to spread salt, attach plows to collection trucks, and clear roads once snow depths reach two inches. More than 700 salt spreaders and approximately 700 million pounds of salt are on hand to tackle the storm.

Travel Advisory and Safety Tips

With the storm expected to coincide with weekend travel plans, officials are urging drivers to exercise caution. The New Jersey Department of Transportation has issued commercial vehicle travel restrictions on multiple Interstate highways starting at 3 p.m. on Saturday. These restrictions do not apply to the New Jersey Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, or Atlantic City Expressway.

Residents are advised to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.
- Keep a safe distance from snowplows and salt trucks.
- Ensure vehicles are equipped with emergency supplies, such as blankets, flashlights, and extra food and water.
- Check local weather updates and road conditions before heading out.

Looking Ahead: More Winter Weather on the Horizon

This weekend’s storm is just the beginning of a series of winter weather events expected to impact the region. Forecasters predict another system could bring snow and a wintry mix to the area on Tuesday, followed by additional precipitation later in the week. The NWS advises residents to stay informed and prepared for rapidly changing conditions.

Conclusion

As Central New York prepares for this weekend’s winter storm, the combination of heavy snowfall, strong winds, and lake-effect snow poses significant challenges. Residents are encouraged to take precautions, stay updated on weather alerts, and follow safety guidelines to navigate the storm safely. With city agencies and emergency services on high alert, the region is poised to weather this winter event effectively.