Oswego Joins Jefferson, Lewis, and More Surrounding Counties in New York’s Winter Weather Emergency: Advisory Suggests Chances of 4 Inches of Snow and Low Visibility Causing Major Travel Hazards

Published on December 8, 2025

A stark winter warning has been issued for counties in and around the rugged Tug Hill region, as National Weather Service (NWS) alerts residents and travelers of fresh snow sweeping across Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis, and other nearby counties. The advisory, which went into effect late Sunday afternoon, warns of 2 to 4 inches of fresh snow — with the steep western slopes of Tug Hill expected to bear the brunt.

For those who call the Tug Hill region home, or plan to travel through tonight — be prepared. The combination of snow‑laden roads, poor visibility, and sudden shifts in weather conditions could turn routine travel into a treacherous ordeal.

In addition to Oswego, Jefferson, and Lewis counties, surrounding areas such as Oneida, Cayuga, and Onondaga counties may also experience heavy snowfall. Locations near the Tug Hill Plateau, including towns like Redfield, Sandy Creek, and Pulaski, are expected to see some of the highest snow accumulations.

What the Advisory Says: Snowfall, Good‑by Visibility

According to the official alert, motorists should expect “additional snow accumulations of 2–4 inches,” with the heaviest build‑up on the western slopes of Tug Hill. Driving conditions are expected to worsen rapidly as snow covers road surfaces and visibility drops. The advisory cautions that lake‑effect snow — weather bands emerging from Lake Ontario — can deliver sudden, intense bursts of snow in localized zones, followed by stretches of clear, dry conditions just a few miles away. That means drivers should remain alert to rapid changes in road and weather conditions even within short journeys.

Local forecasts for Lewis County, for example, highlight the likelihood of snow showers building through the night, with total accumulation possibly reaching toward the higher end of the projected range. Winds shifting to the northwest and gusting up to 30 mph may further reduce visibility, with patchy blowing snow expected to linger overnight.

The Hidden Danger: Snow‑and‑Ice Roads Turn Deadly

Winter road hazards are not just inconvenient — they are statistically alarming. According to data compiled by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), roads blanketed by snow, ice, or slush account for more than 1,300 deaths and over 116,800 injuries annually across the U.S.

Driving on slick surfaces significantly reduces traction. A sudden stop or directional change can cause loss of vehicle control — a frequent trigger for collisions. In fact, snowy or icy conditions contribute to nearly a quarter of all weather‑related crashes.

And when snowfall transitions into sleet or freezing rain — or when temperatures hover near freezing — the risk multiplies. Black ice, slush pools, or snow‑covered patches may be nearly invisible, catching even seasoned drivers off guard.

What Officials and Experts Are Saying: Travel Only If Absolutely Necessary

In recent years, public safety campaigns in New York and beyond have urged residents to cancel or postpone travel plans during severe winter weather. For example, in an earlier lake‑effect snow event, the state government mobilized resources and urged citizens to stay home to avoid white‑out conditions, downed trees, and power outages.

“Strong winds, heavy snow bands, falling tree branches, and drifting planks of snow can create near‑whiteout scenarios,” officials cautioned, urging people to “monitor local forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel, and allow emergency crews to do their job.”

Practical Advice: How to Stay Safe if You Must Travel Tonight

If you must journey through the impacted counties, local safety and transport experts suggest the following measures to reduce risk:

• Slow down and increase following distance. On snow‑covered or icy roads, braking distances can double or triple. Reduce your speed well below the posted limits.
• Equip your vehicle for winter. Keep fuel at least half‑tanked, check tires for adequate tread, and pack an emergency kit — including warm clothing, blankets, water, non‑perishable food, a flashlight, and a phone charger.
• Avoid risky maneuvers. Do not use cruise control on slippery roads, avoid overtaking snowplows unless you can clearly see the road ahead, and never assume all vehicles have full traction.
• Share your travel plans and inform someone of your route and arrival time. That increases the chance of timely assistance if you get stranded.
• Postpone travel if possible. When snow bands intensify or heavy winds cause drifting or tree‑fall, roads may become impassable or dangerously slick.

What Could Go Wrong: Snow, Ice, Whiteouts — and Worse

Beyond crashes, the weather advisory warns of additional hazards common with lake‑effect snow: sudden white‑outs, falling branches or power lines due to gusty winds and snow load, buried or drifting roads, and prolonged exposure if stranded. Historically, such conditions have contributed not only to vehicle accidents but also to dangerous exposure — such as hypothermia — or damage from falling trees and power failures.

In previous winters, officials reported that more than 24% of all weather‑related crashes occur on snow‑ or ice‑covered roads, with many resulting in serious injuries or fatalities.

What to Watch for in Coming Days: Ongoing Snow Risk

The NWS forecast for Lewis County indicates that snow showers may persist beyond Sunday night, with intermittent heavy snowfall likely through parts of the week. Weather models suggest that higher elevations may continue to receive incremental snow accumulation, and gusty winds could bring about blowing snow and drifting, rendering roads treacherous until crews manage clearance.

Residents and travelers are advised to check the latest NWS zone forecasts for Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida, and other affected counties before venturing out, and to stay off roads unless absolutely essential.

New York’s Tug Hill Winter Threat Is Real — Take It Seriously

For those living in or traveling through Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis, and nearby counties — especially along the western slopes of the rugged Tug Hill region — tonight’s winter weather advisory is not just a forecast, but a warning: snow, ice, and sudden lake‑effect bands can transform serene countryside roads into slick hazards within minutes.

If you must drive, plan carefully. Keep your car winter‑ready. Share your route. And if you can, stay put until the snow passes and crews have had a chance to clear the roads. After all, a safe journey is more precious than a hurried arrival.

Safe travels, and may your roads be clear and your winter calm.