Wind Advisory and Rain for Central New York

The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory until 4 p.m. January 3 for parts of Central New York and the Finger lakes including: Cortland, Chenango and Tompkins Counties, affecting the cities of Norwich, Cortland, Oneonta, Ithaca, Syracuse, Corning and Oneida.

Heavy rain is expected for the entire region with up to an inch possible before tapering off in late afternoon.

Forecasters are predicting strong winds from the south at 20 to 35 miles per hour with gusts of 40 to 50 possible, especially at the higher elevations.

The winds are expected to be strongest into early afternoon then subside later in the day.

Strong gusts are capable of causing scattered power outages and tree damage.  Traveling in high profile vehicles may also become challenging.

Wind Advisories are issued when sustained wind speeds of greater than 30 miles an hour and/or gusts of over 40 are expected.

Winds of that magnitude could cause minor damage to trees, power lines and weaker structures.  Be aware of debris blowing across roadways.  People in the advisory area should secure all loose objects. Anyone driving through the advisory area should keep a firm grip on the wheel, especially if driving a high profile vehicle.