A severe and highly localized lake effect snow event is predicted to produce heavy snowfall and hazardous travel conditions to sections of north-central New York until early Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, a Winter Storm Warning is in force for Wayne and northern Cayuga counties until 7 a.m. EST on Saturday. Forecasters predict additional snow accumulations of 1 to 2 feet, with localized totals of up to 3 feet in the strongest persistent snow bands.
The heaviest snowfall is expected to begin later Friday afternoon and last through tonight, with rates of 3 to 5 inches per hour possible at times. The most severe consequences are forecast in far northeastern Wayne County and far northern Cayuga County, while the rest of the counties may receive little to no snow.
Officials warn that travel may become extremely difficult or practically impossible within the most powerful lake effect areas. Bands that stop or move over the same regions are predicted to have near-zero visibility, fast accumulating snow, and deep snow-covered roads.
The National Weather Service highlights that lake effect snow can vary considerably over short distances, with harsh winter conditions happening mere miles from dry roadway. Motorists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and to be cautious for sudden changes in visibility and road conditions.
Residents are asked to report snowfall via official weather service channels or social media when it is safe to do so.
This warning alerts commuters, emergency responders, and overnight workers to the possibility of substantial travel disruptions throughout the night and early Saturday morning.