Buffalo, New York – Lake-effect snow is creating sharply different conditions across Western New York today, with improving travel south and east of Buffalo while dangerous snowfall continues east of Lake Ontario, where intense snow bands and blowing snow remain a concern.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, lake-effect snow off Lake Erie will gradually weaken through the afternoon, with snowfall rates dropping below a half inch per hour later today. Areas south and southeast of Buffalo, including Hamburg, Orchard Park, and portions of Wyoming County, may still see periods of snow and drifting early, but conditions are expected to slowly improve.
Farther east, lake-effect snow off Lake Ontario will remain much more intense. Snow bands are expected to focus across the Tug Hill Plateau for much of the day, where snowfall rates of 2 to 4 inches per hour are possible at times. Late this afternoon, the band is expected to shift south into Oswego County and along the south shore of Lake Ontario, bringing rapidly deteriorating road conditions to communities such as Pulaski, Mexico, and Oswego.
Gusty winds will continue to cause blowing and drifting snow, reducing visibility and making travel hazardous, especially on north-south roads and open stretches of highways.
Drivers are urged to use caution, avoid unnecessary travel in areas under persistent snow bands, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. Lake-effect snow should gradually diminish tonight, though localized impacts may linger into early Saturday.
