Residents of the Finger Lakes and Central New York are going to get a forecast that features a little bit of everything over the next several days, and could really complicate travel by the weekend. The National Weather Service has issued a forecast showing a mix of snow, sleet, freezing rain, and strong winds, which could lead to hazardous conditions for both local and regional travel.
Wintry mix developing by late-Wednesday
A developing low-pressure system will arrive Wednesday evening, bringing snow across much of the region. By late Wednesday night, warm air aloft will push through, leading to a transition from snow to sleet and freezing rain in many areas. This changeover is expected to occur quickly, causing slick roads and icy conditions, especially in sheltered valleys of the Southern Tier, Finger Lakes, and Tug Hill Plateau.
Snow accumulations are expected to be moderate, with areas along and north of the New York State Thruway potentially seeing a few inches before the changeover. The North Country may experience a more prolonged period of snow, with accumulations of 3-6 inches in areas near the St. Lawrence River.
Rain, wind, and cold returns on Thursday
Early Thursday morning, temperatures will rise temporarily, turning most precipitation into rain. However, a strong cold front will sweep through the region later that day, causing temperatures to plummet and changing rain back to snow. Areas east and southeast of Lakes Erie and Ontario will be prone to lake-enhanced snow, leading to additional accumulations and possible whiteout conditions in some areas.
Winds could become a significant factor, with gusts over 40 mph expected along the Lake Erie shoreline and north of the Tug Hill Plateau. These winds may lead to blowing snow and reduced visibility on Thursday and Friday, particularly in open areas.
Lake effect returns Friday before another system arrives
Colder air will dominate Thursday night through Friday, maintaining lake-effect snow bands southeast of Lake Ontario. Oswego, Cayuga, and Wayne counties could see moderate snow accumulations, with occasional snow showers extending westward toward Rochester and Buffalo. Conditions are expected to remain cold, with overnight lows dipping into the single digits and highs struggling to reach the 20s.
Weekend system could have bigger travel implications
The weekend may bring another large system to the region. Current forecasts suggest light snow on Saturday, followed by the potential for a stronger storm on Sunday that could deliver heavy snowfall depending on the storm’s track. Regardless of exact details, the pattern will likely remain unsettled and turn much colder by early next week, with highs in the teens and continued lake-effect snow.
Travelers are advised to monitor local weather updates and prepare for rapidly changing conditions. Those planning long-distance trips should be aware of potential delays and challenging driving conditions, particularly Wednesday night through Friday.
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