Cold and blustery weather returns to Chenango County

CHENANGO COUNTY – Despite a relatively warm start to the morning, colder temperatures, ice and high winds will be returning to Chenango County early today.

According to City of Norwich Emergency Management Officer A. Wesley Jones, the weather will be taking a turn today and extra caution should be used.

Although a high temperature of 41 degrees had occurred early this morning, the National Weather Service in Binghamton released a weather alert, stating the temperatures will diminish to the 20s by mid-morning. A strong cold front moving through the area will cause temperatures to drop and any remaining rain to turn to snow. Jones explained due to the drop in temperatures, black ice is likely to be seen in the area.

In addition to the cold and ice, strong winds will move into the area behind the front. West winds of 25 to 35 miles per hour are expected, with gusts reaching 40 to 50 miles per hour. According to the National Weather Service, “Winds of this magnitude could cause minor damage to trees, power lines and weaker structures. Persons in the advisory area should secure all loose objects. If you are traveling through the advisory area you should keep a firm grip on the wheel, especially for those with high profile vehicles.” The advisory applies to Chenango County and much of the surrounding area. Jones explained that areas to the north and west of Chenango County would probably be hit worse, but said, “we should still see winds of 30 to 40 miles per hour, and that’s enough to bring down trees and power lines.” According to information recorded by the Norwich Weather Station, wind gusts this morning have already reached 25 miles per hour.