Heavy Snow Alert for Madison and Oneida Counties

The National Weather Service has issued a warning for heavy lake effect snow in Madison and Oneida counties. This alert is in effect until Saturday morning at 7 a. m. Residents in these areas should be prepared for significant snowfall. Northern Madison County, including towns like Oneida, Lakeport, and Canastota, is expected to receive an additional 3 to 6 inches of snow. This will bring the total accumulation to around 7 inches. Southern Oneida County, particularly near Verona and Sylvan Beach, could see even more, with totals ranging from 7 to 10 inches.However, the snowfall will not be uniform. Southern Madison County and areas northeast to Utica in Oneida County will only see light additional accumulations of 1 to 4 inches. This sharp cutoff means that snowfall amounts can vary greatly over short distances. Travelers should be cautious, as road conditions are likely to be slippery. The hazardous weather could make the Friday evening commute particularly treacherous. It is advisable to delay non-essential travel if possible. If you must go out, make sure to have an emergency kit in your vehicle, including a flashlight, food, and water. For the latest updates on road conditions, residents can call 511. Staying informed and prepared is key to staying safe during this snow event.