Get Local: The biggest headlines to start your day!
It's Wednesday, June 11th and we've got you covered with all the news to get your day started. The latest on a major housing project in Auburn, Geneva's lakefront blockage, and rare lightning strike!
Canadian wildfire smoke to cloud Northeast skies this summer
Canadian wildfire smoke is expected to cloud skies across the Finger Lakes and Northeast through at least August, reducing sunlight and slightly cooling daytime temperatures. AccuWeather forecasts place the region in a moderate impact zone, with waves of smoke continuing as fires burn across Canada. While the haze can block UV rays to some extent, experts caution that sun protection is still necessary and that surface-level smoke poses health risks. With over 130 active fires and no major weather shifts in sight, clear skies may not return until late summer or fall.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Another dry, breezy, warm day.
The Finger Lakes will see mostly sunny skies today with a high near 80 and gusty west winds. Tonight will be partly cloudy with a low around 62, followed by a slight chance of showers Thursday afternoon as temperatures dip to the mid-70s. Rain chances increase heading into the weekend, with likely showers and possible thunderstorms on Saturday and lingering into Sunday. Next week starts off mostly cloudy with continued chances for scattered showers through Tuesday.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
Geneva City Council voted 4-4 on a $3.84 million plan to extend Long Pier into Seneca Lake, effectively blocking the project. The extension, tied to the city’s stalled marina plan, was promoted for its public access and ADA-compliant fishing features. Opponents argued it added unnecessary debt without generating revenue and conflicted with the canceled marina. The tie occurred because Ward 2 Councilor Bill Pealer was absent, but $860,000 remains available for essential pier repairs.
A $24 million affordable housing project in Auburn has moved forward after the city’s Planning Board unanimously approved the site plan. The development at 197 North St. will include 50 units, targeting residents earning between $35,000 and $56,000 annually. Planned features include green space, improved sidewalks, parking, a playground, and outdoor areas. If grant funding is secured, construction could begin by fall 2026 on the long-vacant site.
A 63-year-old man in Locke was struck by lightning Thursday night while attempting to close a window during a thunderstorm. The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. on an enclosed porch at a Main Street residence. He was transported to Cortland Hospital and did not appear to suffer serious injuries, according to the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office. The lightning strike happened during a night of severe weather across the region.
Steuben County is recovering from flash floods and severe storms that hit late Monday, prompting a state of emergency and travel advisories. Emergency crews handled over 20 calls in six hours as towns like Bath, Canisteo, and Cameron experienced flooded basements, damaged infrastructure, and downed power lines. Boating advisories were issued for Keuka, Seneca, and Cayuta lakes due to debris hazards. While damages are estimated in the millions, officials do not expect state or federal assistance.
Ahmed Abed, 44, of Ithaca has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the November 2024 killing of his wife, Alaa Hussein Jeena Abed. He now faces a minimum sentence of 15 years to life in prison, with the district attorney seeking the maximum penalty. Prosecutors said the plea spares the couple’s children and the community the trauma of a trial. Sentencing is scheduled for August 19, and officials called the case a tragic reminder of the toll of domestic violence.
Megan Moroney brings chart-topping tour to CMAC
Country star Megan Moroney will perform at CMAC in Canandaigua on Thursday as part of her Am I Okay? Tour, following the success of her sophomore album, which debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard 200. She'll be joined by special guest Laci Kaye Booth, with tickets starting at $140, mostly available through resale. The concert begins at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m., and CMAC will enforce a clear bag policy. Moroney’s show is part of a packed summer lineup that also includes Brad Paisley, The Killers, and Hozier.