WATERTOWN, N.Y. – The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Jefferson and Lewis counties, warning residents to brace for heavy lake-effect snow and hazardous travel conditions through midweek. The advisory, issued at 1:32 a.m. Tuesday, remains active until 1 p.m. Wednesday, with snowfall totals of up to 9 inches possible in the hardest-hit areas.
Lake-Effect Snow to Intensify Through Tuesday Night
Forecasters say that intense lake-effect snow bands from Lake Ontario will continue to develop throughout Tuesday, producing localized bursts of heavy snow that could significantly reduce visibility and create rapidly changing road conditions.
The heaviest accumulations, ranging from 6 to 9 inches, are expected across the Tug Hill Plateau, where snowfall rates could exceed one inch per hour at times. In the Watertown metro area, forecasters anticipate 3 to 5 inches of accumulation by Wednesday morning.
“Travel will be difficult,” the National Weather Service said in its advisory. “The hazardous conditions will impact the Tuesday morning commute, and the Wednesday morning commute across the Watertown area will also be affected.”
Motorists traveling along Interstate 81 and secondary roads connecting Watertown, Lowville, and Adams are urged to use caution and prepare for sudden changes in road visibility and traction.
Driving Conditions and Safety Concerns
Authorities caution that narrow snow bands typical of lake-effect systems can create sharply contrasting travel conditions, where one town may experience whiteout conditions while another nearby area remains mostly clear.
Residents should expect:
- Reduced visibility due to blowing and falling snow.
- Snow-covered, slippery roads, particularly on untreated surfaces.
- Icy patches on bridges, overpasses, and rural roadways.
The National Weather Service urges drivers to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid unnecessary travel during peak snowfall hours.
Winter Weather Driving Tips from Experts
Winter weather remains one of the most dangerous travel hazards nationwide, contributing to over 6,000 fatalities and 480,000 injuries annually. The National Weather Service recommends the following steps to stay safe during snowy or icy conditions:
1. Plan and Prepare Before You Travel
- Check weather and road updates before heading out.
- Share your route and ETA with friends or family when traveling long distances.
- Keep a full gas tank and stock your car with essentials such as a windshield scraper, jumper cables, shovel, flashlight, extra clothing, water, and snacks.
2. Stay Calm if Stranded
- Remain in your vehicle and signal for help by tying a bright cloth to your antenna or mirror.
- Keep your dome light on and run the engine periodically to stay warm, ensuring the exhaust pipe is clear of snow.
3. Give Snow Plows Space
- Maintain a safe distance behind snowplows and never pass unless absolutely necessary and safe to do so.
- Remember that plows may throw snow or sand, making visibility even lower in close proximity.
4. Watch for Ice and Downed Power Lines
- Avoid driving near areas with ice accumulation on trees or power lines, which may fall without warning.
- Never touch a downed line—call 911 immediately to report it.
Outlook: Snow Tapers Wednesday
Lake-effect snow is expected to diminish by midday Wednesday, though light flurries may persist into the afternoon. Temperatures will remain below freezing, keeping roads slick even after snowfall ends.
Officials recommend giving road crews time to clear major routes before resuming regular travel schedules.
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