UPDATE: The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has issued an urgent travel advisory for southern Jefferson County as relentless lake effect snow continues to batter the region. Conditions are described as “very difficult to impossible,” with authorities warning that travel should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
As of early Tuesday morning, southern Jefferson, northern Oswego, and western Lewis counties are experiencing heavy snowfall, which is expected to persist throughout the day. The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning that will remain in effect until 4 p.m. Wednesday.
Accumulations of 2 to 4 feet are anticipated in the most intense snow bands, accompanied by gusty winds reaching up to 35 mph. Residents can expect wind chills to plunge as low as -10 degrees overnight, intensifying the dangers associated with these extreme winter conditions.
The snow bands are projected to shift north and south throughout the day, posing significant challenges for the greater Watertown area. The Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that road conditions can change rapidly, leading to very poor visibility and deep snow cover on roads.
“Travel will be very difficult to impossible,” the Sheriff’s Office cautioned, urging residents to assess weather forecasts before venturing out.
Authorities recommend that anyone who must travel should wear or carry appropriate outerwear for extreme temperatures. The combination of heavy snow and harsh wind chills makes this an urgent situation for all residents in affected areas.
As the storm continues, local schools are monitoring conditions closely, and further updates on closures and delays are expected. The impact of this severe weather is being felt not just on the roads but also in the community, as residents brace for potential power outages and hazardous conditions.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story as conditions evolve. For those in the region, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and stay informed about the weather situation.
