URGENT UPDATE: The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has declared travel conditions in southern Jefferson County as “very difficult to impossible” due to relentless lake effect snow battering the region. Residents are urged to avoid travel until conditions improve.
Heavy snowfall has blanketed southern Jefferson, northern Oswego, and western Lewis counties overnight, with the National Weather Service issuing a winter storm warning effective until 4 p.m. Wednesday. Snow accumulations could reach between 2 to 4 feet in the hardest-hit areas, compounded by winds gusting up to 35 mph and significant blowing snow.
Wind chills are expected to plunge to a dangerous minus-10 degrees overnight, heightening the risk for those exposed to the elements. The snowfall bands are forecasted to shift north and south throughout the day, posing a serious threat to the greater Watertown area this morning as conditions change rapidly.
The Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that roadways are covered with deep snow, leading to very poor visibility—a situation likely to worsen as the storm continues. “Travel will be very difficult to impossible,” officials stated, reinforcing the need for caution.
Authorities recommend that residents stay updated with weather forecasts before embarking on any journeys. Those who must travel should be equipped with outerwear suitable for extreme temperatures and ensure their vehicles have necessary supplies in case of emergencies.
As the storm progresses, further updates are anticipated. For the latest weather news and advisories, stay tuned to official channels and local updates.
Residents are reminded that lake effect snow can create rapidly changing conditions. As snowfall rates could reach up to 5 inches per hour in certain areas, the risk of accidents and stranded vehicles remains high.
This is an evolving situation; we will continue to monitor the weather and provide essential updates as they become available. Stay safe, stay informed, and share this information with those who might be impacted.
