Summary: A winter weather advisory covers parts of New York from Tuesday through Thursday. Oneida, Onondaga and Madison counties are forecast to receive 3–6 inches of snow (with locally higher amounts). Expect quick-moving snow Tuesday morning and early afternoon, changing to rain and possible freezing rain later, followed by lake-effect snow showers Tuesday night into Wednesday.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for parts of New York as a fast-moving clipper system moves through the northeastern United States. The advisory is in effect from Tuesday morning through Thursday, and residents should be ready for a mix of snow, ice and periods of reduced visibility.

Where snow is expected

Forecasters specifically call out Oneida, Onondaga and Madison counties as likely to see 3 to 6 inches of snowfall, while noting that some localized pockets could receive significantly more accumulation. The initial snow is expected to fall Tuesday morning into the early afternoon as the clipper system passes.

How the system will evolve

Meteorologists describe the incoming feature as a clipper — a compact, fast-moving low-pressure system — that will produce brief but sometimes intense bursts of snow on Tuesday. Temperatures are forecast to climb into the 30s by Tuesday afternoon, which will cause much of the snow to transition to rain and could produce a period of light freezing rain before that changeover.

Following the clipper and an accompanying cold front, lake-effect snow showers are expected to develop Tuesday night into Wednesday. These showers are likely to deliver the greatest additional accumulations in areas downwind of the lakes.

Local impacts: travel, schools and power

Officials warn that a mix of snow, rain and ice will make roadways slick and visibility poor, especially Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning. Transportation will be difficult; authorities recommend checking road conditions and considering postponing non-essential travel. Delays to work and school schedules are possible as crews treat roads and respond to hazardous conditions.

  • Expect quick-moving snow Tuesday morning and early afternoon
  • Highs in the 30s Tuesday afternoon may change snow to rain
  • Potential for light freezing rain and patchy ice before the changeover
  • Lake-effect snow showers Tuesday night into Wednesday could add more accumulation
  • Oneida, Onondaga and Madison counties forecast 3–6 inches, with localized higher totals
Plowed road with snowbanks and icy conditions in upstate New York during winter storm
Road crews work to clear and treat highways as snow and icy conditions approach across New York

Safety advice for drivers and commuters

Driving in winter conditions increases the risk of accidents. The National Weather Service and local authorities urge people to monitor conditions and to use resources such as 511 for up-to-date road reports. Tree limbs and power lines can become weighed down by snow and ice, creating additional hazards; avoid areas with heavy tree cover when possible.

  • Do not speed — allow extra time and reduce your speed for conditions
  • Increase following distance to allow for longer stopping distances
  • Check road and weather updates before leaving; use 511 where available
  • Anticipate hidden ice on bridges and overpasses and in shaded areas
  • Carry an emergency kit with water, blankets, a flashlight and spare clothing
  • Steer clear of downed power lines; call 911 and maintain distance

The bigger picture: winter risk statistics

Winter weather is a leading factor in seasonal hazards nationwide. The advisory notes that winter-related conditions contribute to over 6,000 fatalities and 480,000 injuries each year, underscoring the importance of taking precautions during storms and icy spells.

Residents of the affected counties—particularly Oneida, Onondaga and Madison—should stay informed through the National Weather Service and local authorities, limit travel when conditions are at their worst, and follow safety guidance issued by emergency services.

What this means for travelers

So what? For travelers and commuters in New York, the advisory means planning ahead: expect slower journeys, potential delays or cancellations, and the possibility of hazardous road conditions. If you must travel, allow extra time, check 511 and weather updates frequently, and be prepared for sudden changes from snow to rain and icy patches.