A winter storm watch is in effect from late tonight through Friday afternoon.
[The National Weather Service released a winter storm watch for the following counties:]
Northern Oneida - Yates - Seneca - Southern Cayuga - Onondaga - Steuben - Schuyler - Chemung - Tompkins - Madison - Southern Oneida - Cortland - Chenango - Otsego - Tioga - Broome - Bradford
Low pressure is expected to move from the Tennessee valley Thursday night to central New York by Friday afternoon. Precipitation should begin as a mix of snow and sleet just before daybreak Friday. The precipitation is then expected to change to freezing rain, then eventually to rain Friday afternoon.
There is the potential for significant snow and ice accumulations primarily from daybreak Friday through early afternoon Friday across the watch area. As conditions become more certain, warnings or advisories may be needed.
A winter storm watch is in effect because heavy snow is a possibility but not a certainty. At this time there is a potential for snow accumulations of seven inches or more. In addition there is a possibility for ice accumulations of up to a quarter of an inch. Travel conditions could become hazardous, so it is important to monitor the latest forecasts and statements if you are planning to travel in the watch area.
National Weather Service
https://www.ithaca.edu/intercom/article.php/20080131105642717