A dangerous lake-effect snowstorm sweeping across Central New York forced the closure of northbound Interstate 81 in Syracuse late Monday night after a multi-vehicle crash, according to state transportation officials. Drivers heading into the city were diverted as blizzard-like conditions made travel nearly impossible.
Crash Shuts Down Northbound Lanes Near Syracuse
The New York State Department of Transportation confirmed that beginning around 11:45 p.m., all northbound traffic on I-81 approaching Syracuse was diverted onto northbound Interstate 481. The closure followed a crash involving multiple vehicles as heavy snow and high winds rapidly deteriorated road conditions.
Officials have not yet released details about the number of vehicles involved or whether injuries occurred, but the crash coincided with the arrival of an intense winter storm expected to severely impact travel through midweek.
Intense Lake-Effect Snowstorm Slams Region
The multi-vehicle crash unfolded as a powerful lake-effect snow band moved into Onondaga County. Forecasters warned that the storm could produce blizzard-like whiteout conditions, with snow falling at 2 to 3 inches per hour at times.
Some locations in Central and Northern New York could see total snow accumulations of up to 3 feet by the time the system moves out. Strong winds accompanying the storm are also creating dangerous drifting and reducing visibility to near zero in affected areas.
Officials Urge Residents to Stay Off the Roads
Local authorities have repeatedly urged residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary, citing hazardous conditions that make driving extremely dangerous. Emergency officials warned that even experienced winter drivers could struggle as visibility drops and roads become slick and snow-packed within minutes.
The combination of heavy snowfall, strong winds, and blowing snow is expected to continue making roads hazardous throughout the day and overnight.
Winter Storm Warning Remains in Effect
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for the region until 7 a.m. Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. The warning covers a large swath of Central and Northern New York, where lake-effect snow bands are expected to shift and intensify through the storm’s duration. Motorists are advised to check travel alerts, delay non-essential trips, and monitor updates from local authorities as conditions evolve.
Summary
A multi-vehicle crash prompted the late-night closure of northbound I-81 in Syracuse as a severe lake-effect snowstorm brought blizzard-like conditions and heavy snowfall to the region. With snowfall rates up to 3 inches per hour and totals possibly reaching 3 feet, officials are urging residents to avoid travel and remain cautious through Wednesday morning. Stay updated with the latest severe weather alerts and travel advisories at HonkNews.com.