Syracuse, New York – Drivers across Central New York are facing slick and snow-covered roads Sunday night as a persistent lake effect snow band continues to impact Onondaga County, creating dangerous travel conditions ahead of the Monday morning commute.
Ongoing Winter Weather Advisory for Onondaga County
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for Onondaga County until 7 a.m. Monday.
Forecasters expect widespread lake effect snow accumulations of 3 to 5 inches, with the heaviest snowfall concentrated across the northern half of the county. Northwest portions of Onondaga County, including areas outside the city of Syracuse, are most likely to see the highest totals as the snow band remains nearly stationary overnight.
Slippery Roads and Reduced Visibility Overnight
Snow-covered roads and reduced visibility are expected to persist through the overnight hours, especially on untreated roadways, secondary streets, bridges, and overpasses.
Drivers heading out early Monday morning should anticipate slick conditions during the peak commute hours. Officials recommend allowing extra travel time and exercising caution, as road conditions may deteriorate quickly beneath intense lake effect snow bands.
Advisory Continues for Northern Oneida County
Farther east, Northern Oneida County remains under a Winter Weather Advisory until midnight Sunday night.
Additional lake effect snow accumulations of up to one inch are expected around Boonville, which could continue to produce slick and hazardous driving conditions through the evening hours.
Officials Urge Caution as Conditions Change Rapidly
Local officials and weather forecasters are urging motorists to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid unnecessary travel overnight.
Lake effect snow can cause conditions to change rapidly within short distances, leaving drivers unexpectedly traveling from clear roads into heavy snowfall with little warning. Weather advisories remain in effect, and additional updates may be issued if snowfall persists into early Monday morning.
Winter Weather Driving Risks
Winter weather remains a serious safety concern nationwide. Each year, over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and more than 480,000 injuries are linked to hazardous road conditions such as snow and ice.
During near-freezing temperatures, drivers are advised to assume icy conditions are present, even if roads appear merely wet. Extra caution should also be taken around power lines and tree branches, as ice buildup can lead to snapping and falling hazards.
If possible, officials recommend avoiding travel during severe winter conditions. If travel is necessary, choose routes with fewer trees and power lines, and never touch a downed power line. Any downed line should be reported immediately by dialing 911.
Winter Driving Safety Tips
The weather service shared the following guidance to help reduce risks during snow-covered conditions.
Share your travel plans
If traveling out of town during winter weather, inform a family member or friend of your destination, planned route, and estimated arrival time.
Prepare your vehicle
Keep your gas tank full and carry essential winter supplies, including a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.
Stay calm if stranded
If you become stranded, remain calm and stay with your vehicle. Notify someone of your location and situation. Avoid walking to safety. Signal for help by tying a cloth to your antenna or mirror and increase visibility by using hazard lights or your interior dome light.
Be aware of snow plows
Give snow plows plenty of room to operate and only pass when you have a clear view of the road ahead.
Check road conditions before travel
Always review the latest road and weather conditions before starting your trip to make informed decisions.
Looking Ahead
Lake effect snow is expected to gradually ease by Monday morning, but lingering slick spots may continue into the early commute. Drivers across Central New York are encouraged to stay alert and monitor local forecasts for the latest updates.
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