Rochester Braces for Heavy Lake Effect Snow

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The Rochester area is expected to see steady and heavy lake effect snow over the next few days, with the potential for 4-6 inches of accumulation. Temperatures will remain in the teens with single-digit wind chill values, and additional snow showers are possible on Friday and Saturday.

Why it matters

Lake effect snow is a common occurrence in the Rochester region, but heavy accumulations can impact travel, school closures, and daily routines. Residents will need to prepare for the wintry conditions and potential disruptions.

The details

The lake effect snow is expected to develop east of Rochester and spread across the area, with scattered snow showers developing elsewhere as well. Highs will only reach the 10s, with lows near or just below zero. Wind chills could drop to 10-20 degrees below zero at times. The snow will come in multiple rounds, meaning it won't all add up at once. Areas closer to Lake Ontario could see the highest totals.

• Today, steadier and heavier lake effect snow will fall east of Rochester.
• Tonight, low temperatures will drop to near or just below zero with additional snow showers possible.
• Early Friday, wind chills could range from 10-20 degrees below zero.
• Additional snow showers are possible on Friday, with highs only in the upper single digits to middle teens.
• Lake snow will remain a possibility Friday night south of Lake Ontario.