As much as a foot of snow could fall at higher altitudes, including the Adirondacks and Catskills. At lower altitudes, most of the snow is likely to be east of I-81, in the Mohawk Valley and around the capital. These areas could see 5 to 11 inches of snow, with the highest on the hilltops. Syracuse has now been included in a less winter weather warning issued this morning by the National Meteorological Service. Most of Onondaga County will probably see a few inches, except for the hills south of the city, where heavy snow could fall overnight. Delays in schools are possible in areas that have been severely affected, as the heaviest snow is expected shortly after sunrise. The coastal storm is likely to reach New York Upstate this afternoon, with rain starting near sunset and turning to snow early Tuesday morning. Temperatures will fluctuate around zero, so even if they are a few degrees above the forecast, we could see more rain and less snow. The zone of the thickest snow is expected in the east of Syracuse and will depend to a large extent on the altitude. For example, the central town of Oneida County, Westmoreland, at 655 feet above sea level, is projected to have about 6 inches of snow. About 25 miles south, the town of Brookfield, Madison County, 1,000 feet above Westmoreland, could see one foot. For Syracuse and nearby communities, snow is likely to fall on Tuesday morning after temperatures rise. Higher altitudes in the east could see snow all day on Tuesday. Strong winds on Tuesday afternoon may significantly reduce visibility. The meteorological service has also warned of possible power outages. Spring snow generally retains more moisture and can cause excessive weight on utility lines. The snow will melt quickly, thanks to the high angle of the sun at this time of year and the high temperatures. High temperatures will be in the upper 40s and 50s for the next few days and even 60 degrees on Friday. An inland coastal storm could bring a foot of snow to the highest elevations in the eastern state of New York tonight and Tuesday.
