Winter Storm Warning Announced as 48 Inches of Snow, Dangerous 45 mph Winds Approach

The National Weather Service issued a winter weather warning for much of the Great Lakes region this week as heavy snowfall and dangerous winds make travel difficult.

The upper Midwest and Great Lakes region have been battered with snow, but the storm is expected to quiet down in states like Wisconsin and Michigan. However, states east of Lake Erie and Ontario are in for some more nasty weather.

Eastern Great Lakes Region Set to Receive Heavy Snow

The National Weather Service warned that while the intense cyclone that's been hovering over the upper Midwest is set to move away, another surge of arctic air will "invade much of the eastern two-thirds of the country."

"In the process, the lake-effect 'snow machine' will remain active downwind from the Great Lakes, and will be reinforced with the arrival of an Alberta clipper later today. The highest snowfall totals are forecast to be downwind of Lakes Erie and Ontario where an additional 1-2 feet with locally 3+ feet possible within the heaviest snow bands through the next couple of days," the National Weather Service said.

New York Bracing for More Than 4 Feet of Snow

The NWS revealed cities of Oswego, Watertown and Lowville could be in store for up to four feet of snow. "Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations 2 to 4 feet. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph will create blowing and drifting snow along with whiteout conditions at times," the NWS said.

The National Weather Service also warned against travel in the region: "Whiteout conditions are expected to continue today and will make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Travel will remain very difficult with hazardous conditions from lake effect snow continuing to impact travel through the week."

The winter storm warning in the area is set to run through Friday, Jan. 2.

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