Photo: garett_mosher / iStock / Getty Images
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for much of Central New York, including Madison, Onondaga, Oneida, and Oswego counties. The warning will be in effect from 7 p.m. tonight until Wednesday morning (December 31). Forecasters predict a lake effect storm could bring between eight and 14 inches of snow to the region, with some areas potentially seeing up to 15 inches by New Year's Eve.
The storm is expected to bring wind gusts of up to 50 miles per hour, which could lead to blowing snow and significantly reduced visibility. According to the National Weather Service, travel could become very difficult or even impossible, especially during the morning and evening commutes on Tuesday (December 30).
The storm is part of a larger weather pattern affecting Upstate New York, bringing waves of freezing rain, rain, and high winds before transitioning to snow. The weather service advises residents to prepare for hazardous conditions and to keep emergency supplies in their vehicles if travel is necessary. They recommend checking road conditions before traveling and avoiding areas with downed power lines.
The forecast for Syracuse includes snow showers and blowing snow, with temperatures dropping to a low of 18°F tonight and a high of 25°F on Tuesday. More snow showers are likely on Wednesday, with a high of 30°F, according to the National Weather Service.