A blanket of snow is set to envelop Central New York, with a dramatic winter storm sweeping across the region. But this isn't just any snowstorm; it's a potential travel nightmare!
Meteorologist Sam Postich provides an in-depth look at this weather event, which began on the morning of January 25th, 2026. By 8 am, the southern tier was already experiencing heavy snowfall, and the system is gradually moving north.
The Big Picture: Imagine waking up to a winter wonderland on Monday morning, but with a twist. This storm means business, and by late morning, it will have blanketed much of the region, making travel a challenge. The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the entire state, in effect until 7 PM on Monday.
Brace for the Cold: As of the morning of January 25th, temperatures are frigid, with wind chills between -5 and -10 degrees. It will warm up slightly in the afternoon, but don't be fooled—wind gusts of 20-25 mph will make it feel colder. This wind will also cause blowing and drifting snow, further complicating travel.
Snowfall Rates: The snow will start lightly in the morning, but by Sunday afternoon, it will intensify. From 2 PM on Sunday to 12 AM on Monday, snowfall rates could reach an impressive 1-2 inches per hour.
Snowfall Totals: By 4 PM on Sunday, the southern portion of New York will be the snowiest, with 6-12 inches already accumulated. Syracuse will likely see around 6 inches by then, with slightly lower amounts further north. But here's where it gets interesting—by 6 AM on Monday, the entire region will be covered in a thick layer of snow, with totals ranging from 12 to 18 inches. The southern hills and southern tier might even see isolated totals exceeding 18 inches!
And there's more: The snow doesn't stop there. Lake-effect snow will develop behind this system on Monday afternoon, bringing more snow overnight and into Tuesday morning. Daily snow showers are expected throughout the week, adding a couple of inches each day.
Stay Informed: For the latest updates and live local radar, click HERE. Stay tuned, as this storm is set to make a significant impact on the region. But what do you think? Are you prepared for this winter blast? Do you think the snow totals will live up to the forecast? Share your thoughts and stay safe out there!
