Prepare for an unsettled weather pattern throughout our region for the remainder of the workweek. Expect potentially impactful weather conditions, particularly on Wednesday, Wednesday night, and Thursday morning.
Initially, our area will experience intermittent light rain until Tuesday night. However, before Wednesday dawn and into most of the Wednesday morning, there is a likelihood of more consistent and heavier rainfall. A brief respite from the rain may occur from midday into the afternoon on Wednesday before another round of heavier rain returns later in the afternoon.
Given the repeated bouts of heavy rain on the saturated spring soils, localized flooding of low-lying flood-prone areas may occur. Although Cayuga, Seneca, Yates, Ontario, and Wayne counties are not under a flood watch, there is concern for possible localized flooding in these areas as well. Flood watches are issued to alert the public of the potential for flooding in the region. It is essential to stay informed, have flood action plans in place, and take necessary precautions if a warning is issued or flooding is observed.
Accompanying the rain, the winds are expected to pick up with gusts of 30-40 MPH likely late Tuesday night through Wednesday morning, with the strongest gusts anticipated between midday and evening on Wednesday. Given the waterlogged soil conditions, there is a risk of isolated trees toppling under the influence of the strongest wind gusts. While no alerts have been released by the National Weather Service, it is advisable to monitor the situation closely as wind advisories or high wind warnings may become necessary.
The rain is predicted to transition into steady to heavier snow eventually, with temperatures hovering near the freezing point, especially in lower elevations. The best chances for accumulating snowfall are anticipated during the nighttime and early morning hours.
A system more inclined towards elevation variations is expected, with the first significant snowfall likelihood on Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Initial snowfall forecasts are subject to change, showing estimated total snow accumulation across Upstate NY and CNY regions.
During the daylight hours of Thursday and Friday, there may not be additional accumulating snowfall. However, a trace to an inch or two is possible on Thursday night and Friday night.
For further detailed updates on the forecast, please refer to the following source: [link provided].