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A major winter storm is expected to bring significant snowfall and dangerously cold temperatures to Binghamton and the Southern Tier region this weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
The National Weather Service in Binghamton has issued a Winter Storm Watch for Broome County and surrounding areas, with forecasts predicting heavy snowfall beginning Saturday (January 25) and continuing into Sunday.
"We're expecting widespread accumulating snowfall," said Kaitlyn Lardeo, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service Binghamton. While exact snowfall amounts remain uncertain, the storm could bring 6 to 12 inches across the region, with some areas potentially seeing higher totals.
The approaching storm is part of a larger weather system that will affect much of the eastern United States, bringing multiple weather hazards including snow, ice, and extreme cold.
Before the snowfall begins, residents will face bitter cold temperatures as an Arctic air mass settles over the region Friday (January 23). Temperatures are expected to plummet to around 1 degree Friday night, with Saturday's high reaching only 10 degrees. Wind chill values could drop to between -10 and -20 degrees.
The combination of heavy snow and extreme cold creates particularly dangerous conditions. The New York State Department of Health warns that these temperatures significantly increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Symptoms of frostbite include numbness and red, waxy-looking skin, while hypothermia warning signs include shivering, confusion, and slurred speech.
Local officials are urging residents to prepare for the storm by stocking up on essential supplies, checking on elderly neighbors, and avoiding unnecessary travel once the storm begins.
"This storm has the potential to create hazardous travel conditions and possible power outages," said Broome County Emergency Services Director. "We're asking everyone to take this forecast seriously and make preparations now."
The storm is expected to impact the region through early next week, with snow and cold temperatures continuing through Sunday night.