A fast-moving band of heavy snow is rushing across central New York and northern Pennsylvania this morning, posing a hazard to travel with rapid decreases in visibility and gusting winds.
According to the National Weather Service in Binghamton, the snow band was seen around 6:08 a.m. EST, running from Richmondville, NY, to Candor, NY, and traveling southeast at 45 mph. Winds within the snow band are gusting up to 30 mph, decreasing visibility to less than a mile.
New York counties Otsego, Chenango, Tioga, Broome, and Delaware are among those affected, as are Pennsylvania counties Susquehanna, Northern Wayne, and Bradford. Franklin, Chenango Valley State Park, Hallstead, and Port Crane are among the hardest-hit areas.
Interstate travel has been considerably hampered, with dangerous conditions reported on Interstate 81 between exits 1 and 7, Interstate 86/Route 17 between routes 63 and 90, and Interstate 88 between exits 1 and 19. Drivers on Pennsylvania’s Interstate 81 between exits 219 and 230 should likewise exercise caution.
A second snow band is heading southeast at 35 mph across Steuben, Chemung, Schuyler, Tioga, and Tompkins counties. Watkins Glen, Horseheads North, and Mark Twain State Park are all facing comparable hazardous circumstances.
Travelers are advised to exercise caution, as suddenly changing visibility and sloppy roadways can lead to accidents. Those who must drive should provide extra time, moderate their speed, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.
