Wayne County Braces for Up to 2 Feet of Snow as Lake Effect Storm Intensifies
Lake effect snow warning in effect through Sunday.
Hazardous Weather Outlook & Lake Effect Snow Warning
Hazardous Weather Outlook & Gale Warning
A prolonged lake effect snow event is set to impact Wayne County, New York, with heavy snowfall and strong winds persisting through Sunday evening. The National Weather Service has issued a Lake Effect Snow Warning, with totals expected to reach between one to two feet in the most persistent snow bands.
Heavy snow will be highly localized, with northeastern Wayne County experiencing the highest accumulations. Snowfall rates could reach 1-2 inches per hour in the most intense bands, particularly at elevations above 1500 feet. Wind gusts of up to 40 mph will create blowing and drifting snow, significantly reducing visibility and complicating travel.
Snowfall Totals and Timing:
Tonight (Wednesday): Snow showers likely after 4 AM with minimal accumulation of less than half an inch. Winds from the west will gust up to 38 mph, with a low around 31°F.
Thursday: Snow throughout the morning will transition to snow showers in the afternoon. Highs near 35°F with new snow accumulation of 2-4 inches. Winds gusting up to 40 mph will create blowing snow.
Thursday Night: Snow showers continue with an additional accumulation of less than half an inch. Low around 25°F, with gusts up to 32 mph.
Friday and Friday Night: Snow likely during the day and occasional snow overnight, adding another inch to accumulations. Highs near 31°F and lows falling to 21°F.
Saturday: Occasional snow with significant accumulations expected in the morning. High near 26°F. Winds will gust up to 31 mph.
Sunday: Snowfall tapers off by evening with highs near 27°F. Gusty winds will persist, contributing to blowing snow.
Impacts:
Road conditions will be hazardous, varying drastically within short distances due to the narrow bands of lake effect snow. Visibility may drop to near zero during heavy bursts, and drifting snow could obscure roadways. The combination of heavy snow and strong winds may also result in isolated power outages, especially in areas with significant tree cover.
Residents are urged to ensure emergency supplies, including food, water, and flashlights, are readily available. Non-essential travel should be avoided.
The current snowfall map indicates 8-12 inches for lower elevations in Wayne County, with over a foot possible in higher terrain northeast of Newark. Snowfall rates in some areas may intensify to 1-2 inches per hour during peak activity.