Things are staying wintry in the Finger Lakes as a powerful winter storm moves away from the region, giving way to a multi-day stretch of intense lake effect snow and dangerously cold temperatures. The National Weather Service has issued a series of warnings and advisories for Cayuga, Seneca, Schuyler, Ontario, Livingston, Tompkins, Yates, and Wayne counties, with conditions expected to deteriorate rapidly.
Forecasters warn that lake effect snow off Lake Ontario will intensify Monday afternoon and continue through Wednesday, producing snowfall rates of up to three inches per hour in the hardest-hit areas. By the time the storm subsides, parts of the region could see accumulations of 1.5 to 3 feet. Whiteout conditions are expected due to strong winds gusting up to 50 mph, which will create significant blowing and drifting snow.
The heaviest snowfall is expected in Wayne, Northern Cayuga, Oswego, and Lewis counties, where a Lake Effect Snow Warning remains in effect until early Wednesday. In these areas, wind gusts could reach up to 50 mph, further complicating travel and increasing the risk of power outages. A Winter Weather Advisory has also been issued for Monroe and Orleans counties, where 5 to 10 inches of snow are expected through Tuesday night.
Wind chill values across the Finger Lakes will plunge as low as -25°F, posing a serious risk of frostbite and hypothermia. A Cold Weather Advisory is in place for much of the region, urging residents to limit time outdoors and dress in layers to protect against the extreme temperatures.
In addition to the snow and cold, high winds will make travel treacherous. A High Wind Warning is in effect for Tompkins, Onondaga, and Southern Cayuga counties, with gusts reaching up to 60 mph. Officials warn that downed power lines and falling tree limbs could cause widespread outages.
The storm’s impact is expected to be widespread, affecting both road and air travel. Motorists are advised to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary, as blowing and drifting snow will reduce visibility to near zero at times. Airlines have also warned of potential delays and cancellations at airports throughout the region.
With conditions expected to remain hazardous through midweek, officials urge residents to take precautions. Emergency responders recommend keeping extra supplies, including blankets, food, and water, in vehicles in case of becoming stranded. Power companies are also on high alert for outages, advising customers to prepare for potential service disruptions.
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