NYC Braces for Arctic Blast and Historic Upstate Snow

New York City is experiencing a frigid arctic blast, with temperatures plummeting and winds making it feel even colder. While the city itself will see highs in the mid-40s and dry, crisp conditions throughout the weekend, upstate New York is facing a different story.

Upstate New York: Buried Under Feet of Snow

A massive lake-effect snowstorm is blanketing parts of upstate New York, with blizzard-like conditions expected to last through the weekend. Millions of residents are under a lake-effect storm warning.

Areas most impacted: Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis, Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, southern Erie, and parts of Allegany counties.

Snow accumulation: Oswego, Jefferson, and Lewis counties could see 3-4 feet of snow; Wyoming, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus counties, along with southern Erie County, could receive 2-3 feet. Snowfall rates of 1-2 inches per hour are expected.

The National Weather Service warns of extremely difficult, potentially impossible travel conditions, particularly Saturday afternoon into Sunday.

Government Response: Governor Kathy Hochul has implemented a ban on tandem trucks and empty commercial vehicles on parts of the New York State Thruway and other major roadways to improve safety and aid snow removal efforts.

Understanding Lake-Effect Snow

Lake-effect snow occurs when cold air moves over warmer lake water, causing significant snowfall downwind. This phenomenon is responsible for the extreme snowfall impacting upstate New York.

Stay Safe and Informed

Residents in affected areas are urged to monitor weather reports, heed warnings from the National Weather Service, and take necessary precautions to stay safe during the storm.