Syracuse Bracing for Major Snowstorm as Blizzard Conditions Expected This Weekend

Syracuse Bracing for a Blizzard: Upstate New York Faces Major Snowstorm This Weekend

As winter finally settles in, Syracuse and its surrounding areas are preparing for what could be a stunning display of snow courtesy of the lake effect! The National Weather Service has issued lake effect snow warnings for much of Upstate New York, and folks are advised to batten down the hatches and get ready for a wild winter weekend.

The Snow Is Coming!

This Friday morning, from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday, a significant snowstorm is expected to hit hard, especially in places like Western New York and the Tug Hill plateau. According to forecasters, we’re looking at the potential for “formidable” lake effect snow. It’s not just a little dusting either – some spots could see multiple feet of snow!

Imagine this: snow falling at a hectic pace of up to 2 inches per hour in the most intense snow bands. Now that’s a snow day! But keep in mind, driving might be a real challenge. The worst driving conditions are expected on I-90 between Cleveland and Buffalo and I-81 north of Syracuse. With wind gusts reaching 30 mph, visibility will be low, making travel hazardous – maybe even impossible! The Buffalo weather crew has warned that some major roadways could experience temporary closures due to snow.

What About the Buffalo Bills?

As if that weren’t enough excitement, don’t forget about the Buffalo Bills! The team is set to face the San Francisco 49ers at 8:20 p.m. Sunday, and they’re going to be playing right in the thick of it. Northern Erie County, which includes Orchard Park, the home of Highmark Stadium, will be under a winter storm watch from Saturday morning through Sunday night. Reports suggest that up to 7 inches of snow could accumulate during the game. Fans heading to the stadium are definitely going to need their warm jackets and snow boots!

How Lake Effect Snow Works

Now, if you’re wondering why Upstate New York is in for such a snowy treat, let’s break it down. This time of year is prime for lake effect snow because the Great Lakes are still warm in comparison to the air temperatures. Cold winds sweeping down from Canada pick up moisture from these warm lakes and drop it back down as intense snow once they hit the cooler land. For example, Lake Erie’s surface is currently sitting at a cozy 51 degrees Fahrenheit—that’s a whopping 6 degrees above the long-term average for this time of year!

However, not just any wind will do; it must come from the west or northwest and carry cold enough air over the warm waters to create those spectacular snowstorms. And let’s face it, Upstate New York residents are no strangers to challenging weather conditions—many have seen it all, including last January when folks were digging out from nearly 2 feet of snow!

Stay Safe and Be Prepared

The bottom line is, if you live in or around Syracuse, it might be a good idea to stock up on essentials and prepare to hunker down for a snow day or two. Keep an eye on weather updates, make travel plans accordingly, and be sure to watch out for those changing road conditions. Whether you love winter sports or simply enjoy cozy nights at home with hot cocoa, there’s a certain magic to the first snowfall of the year. Stay warm and safe, everyone!