Winter Storm to Dump Up to 12 Inches Across Central NY and Northeast PA, Making I-81 and I-88 Dangerous Early Tuesday
BINGHAMTON, NY — A significant early-season winter storm is expected to cause hazardous travel, rapidly deteriorating visibility, and snow-covered roads across Central New York and Northeast Pennsylvania early Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service in Binghamton.
Heavy Snow Begins Before Dawn and Intensifies During Morning Commute
Snow will spread from west to east between 2 AM and 5 AM Tuesday, quickly strengthening during the morning hours. Meteorologists warn that the heaviest snow will coincide with the morning commute, making travel extremely difficult.
Visibility may drop sharply, and untreated roads will become slick as snow begins to accumulate.
4–12 Inches Expected Across the Region, With Highest Totals in the Catskills and Poconos
Forecast snowfall totals include:
- 4–6 inches: Ithaca, Elmira, Cortland, Syracuse
- 6–8 inches: Binghamton, Montrose, Honesdale, Scranton
- 8–12 inches: Delhi, Cooperstown, Catskills high elevations, Poconos
These higher elevation areas may hold onto snow the longest before the storm tapers off Tuesday evening.
Roads May Freeze Rapidly After Mild Weather
Because the region has experienced a recent stretch of warmer temperatures, the NWS notes that road surfaces may initially remain wet before quickly freezing, creating ice patches and raising the risk of accidents.
This is expected to be especially challenging along:
- Interstate 81
- Interstate 86
- Interstate 88
Drivers are urged to avoid early-morning travel if possible.
Travelers Urged to Monitor Updates as Conditions Decline Overnight
Winter Storm Watches remain in effect, and additional warnings or advisories may be issued as confidence grows.
Residents and travelers are encouraged to monitor forecast updates through the National Weather Service at weather.gov/bgm.
If you live along the I-81 or I-88 corridors, share how conditions look in your area — ChicagoMusicGuide.com will continue following weather alerts across the region.