Herkimer, NY – A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for Southern Herkimer County until 7 a.m. Friday, with forecasters warning of deteriorating travel conditions as lake effect snow bands strengthen through Thursday night.
The National Weather Service in Albany reports that 2 to 6 inches of snow are expected across the region, with locally higher amounts possible where the lake effect bands remain stationary. Forecasters note that wind gusts of up to 40 mph may create blowing and drifting snow, making roads slick and reducing visibility during peak travel hours.
Advisory Highlights and Affected Areas
The advisory includes Little Falls, Ilion, Dolgeville, Herkimer, and Frankfort, communities positioned directly in the path of incoming lake effect snow. Meteorologists caution that both the Thursday morning and evening commutes could be impacted by slippery surfaces, snow-covered roads, and brief whiteout conditions.
Drivers may encounter rapidly changing visibility, with stretches of clear roads quickly followed by intense snow bursts. These conditions are typical of narrow but powerful lake effect bands that sweep through Central New York during early-season cold snaps.
What Forecasters Are Saying
According to the weather service, “lake effect snow will continue to shift across the region through tonight,” bringing periods of moderate to heavy snowfall.
Officials emphasize that travel could become dangerous, especially on untreated secondary roads and rural routes where drifting snow tends to accumulate.
Expected Timeline and Weather Pattern
Snow began early Thursday and is forecast to continue in waves through late evening as colder air passes over Lake Ontario. While accumulation will vary widely depending on band placement, residents in southern Herkimer County should prepare for steady snowfall through the night.
Conditions are expected to improve by early Friday morning, when winds begin to weaken and snow showers gradually diminish. Temperatures will remain below freezing, which means any untreated surfaces may stay icy into the morning commute.
Travel and Safety Guidance
Motorists are urged to slow down and drive with caution, as visibility may drop suddenly within heavier bands. Those traveling during evening hours should allow additional time and keep headlights on at all times.
Public safety officials recommend keeping extra distance between vehicles, clearing all snow from windshields, and avoiding unnecessary travel during periods of reduced visibility.
What Residents Should Prepare For
Residents should expect:
- Periods of heavy lake effect snow through tonight
- Gusty winds leading to drifting and blowing snow
- Slippery roads during both commutes
- Possible delays in snow removal on rural roads
- Continued below-freezing temperatures into Friday morning
Snow-covered sidewalks and untreated driveways may remain slick. Those heading out early Friday should take precautions to avoid slips and falls.
Outlook into Friday
As winds calm overnight, lingering snow showers will gradually taper off. The region will stay cold, with temperatures struggling to rise above freezing Friday. Roads and walkways may take several hours to improve fully, especially in shaded or elevated areas.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from the National Weather Service as lake effect bands can shift unexpectedly and deliver higher-than-forecast totals in narrow corridors.
Share Your Local Conditions
If you’re in Southern Herkimer County, share what you’re seeing on the ground in the comments below. Your firsthand updates help others stay aware during quickly changing winter weather.
