By Michael D. Carroll
Breaking News Editor
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Lake Effect Snow Warning for Oswego, Jefferson, and Lewis counties in New York from Friday, Nov. 29, at 7 a.m. EST until Monday, Dec. 2, at 7 p.m. EST.
The NWS forecasts heavy lake-effect snow, with total accumulations of three to four feet in the most persistent bands. The greatest snowfall is expected across the northern Tug Hill region and areas just south and east of Watertown.
"Travel will be very difficult to impossible within the heaviest portion of the band," said the NSW warning. "The hazardous conditions will impact the Friday morning and evening commutes."
"During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just a few miles away," it continued. "Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, visibility, and road conditions."
"Consider delaying travel. If you must travel, drive with extreme caution. Leave plenty of room between you and the motorist ahead of you, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and be especially cautious on hills or when making turns."
Forecasters are predicting several feet of snow in regions affected by the most persistent lake-effect bands. Snowfall rates are expected to average one to two inches per hour, with occasional periods of even heavier accumulation.
The Weather Service predicts below-freezing temperatures in the upper 20s for Orchard Park, with a steady 43 percent chance of snow lasting through Sunday evening. Winds are expected to come from the west at a mild eight mph.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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