Lake Effect Snow Warning Issued for Jefferson and Lewis Counties: Latest Holiday Travel Update

The National Weather Service has issued a Lake Effect Snow Warning for Jefferson and Lewis counties ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. The alert calls for heavy lake-effect snow, strong winds, and dangerous travel conditions. The warning begins Thursday afternoon and continues through early Saturday.

Officials said the storm could disrupt holiday travel across northern New York. Forecasters expect significant accumulations in higher elevations, along with blowing and drifting snow caused by strong wind gusts.

Storm Forecast Details for the Lake Effect Snow Warning

The National Weather Service confirmed that Jefferson and Lewis counties will see some of the heaviest snowfall from the upcoming lake-effect band. Snow totals are expected to reach six to twelve inches in several areas, especially across the Tug Hill Plateau. Lower elevations near Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River will see lighter amounts.

Wind gusts could reach up to fifty miles per hour during the height of the warning. These winds may create whiteout conditions at times. The NWS said drifting snow may make some rural roads difficult to navigate, especially after sunset. According to ongoing coverage from outlets such as AP and CNN, similar storms in past years have caused major Thanksgiving travel delays across the region.

Jefferson County is also under a Wind Advisory from Wednesday evening through early Friday. St. Lawrence County remains under a Winter Storm Watch, with four to ten inches of snow possible and wind gusts up to thirty-five miles per hour. That watch begins late Wednesday night and lasts through late Friday night.

Residents are being urged to monitor updated forecasts and plan ahead for hazardous driving conditions. Road crews are preparing for rapid accumulation along major and secondary routes. Local officials said travel could become challenging at times due to snow-covered roadways and reduced visibility.

How the Holiday Storm Could Affect the Region

The storm is arriving during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Many families will be on the road throughout Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Sudden bands of lake-effect snow could catch some drivers off guard. Road conditions may vary greatly within short distances, which is common during strong events off Lake Ontario.

Schools, businesses, and holiday events may also feel the impact of the warning. Some communities could see schedule changes depending on how quickly snow accumulates. Power outages are possible if wind gusts lead to downed tree limbs or lines.

The Lake Effect Snow Warning highlights a disruptive start to the holiday weekend for Jefferson, Lewis, and nearby counties. Officials urge drivers to stay alert, check weather updates often, and prepare for winter travel as conditions shift quickly across the region.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How much snow will fall under the lake effect snow warning?

Forecasters expect six to twelve inches in Jefferson and Lewis counties. The highest totals will occur on the Tug Hill Plateau. Lower elevations will see lighter amounts.

Q2: When does the lake effect snow warning start and end?

The warning runs from Thursday at 1 p.m. through Saturday at 1 a.m. Conditions will worsen Thursday night. Travel may stay difficult into early Saturday.

Q3: Will winds make travel more dangerous?

Yes. Wind gusts could reach up to fifty miles per hour. Blowing and drifting snow may reduce visibility and make roads slippery.

Q4: What about St. Lawrence County?

St. Lawrence County remains under a Winter Storm Watch. Snow totals of four to ten inches are possible. Winds may gust up to thirty-five miles per hour.

Q5: Could Thanksgiving plans be affected?

Yes. Travel delays and poor road conditions are likely. Communities may adjust schedules as the storm progresses.