Buffalo, New York – An arctic air mass has settled across western and north-central New York, bringing dangerously cold wind chills that are expected to persist through the weekend.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service in Buffalo, frigid temperatures combined with steady winds behind a cold front will result in wind chills falling rapidly through Saturday morning. Some of the coldest conditions of the season are expected across the region.
Wind chill values today are forecast to drop into the negative teens and 20s below zero across much of western New York. In some locations east of Lake Ontario, wind chills could approach 30 degrees below zero tonight into Sunday morning. These conditions significantly increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia with prolonged outdoor exposure.
Communities along major transportation corridors such as Interstate 90, Interstate 81, Interstate 490, Interstate 86, and Route 5 will experience similar hazardous conditions. Drivers may encounter additional cold-related issues, including reduced vehicle performance and rapidly freezing exposed skin during roadside stops.
The National Weather Service notes that western New York is expected to see its coldest wind chills today, while areas east of Lake Ontario may experience their coldest conditions overnight into Sunday. Despite some moderation expected early next week, temperatures and wind chills will remain colder than normal.
Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, dress in multiple layers, and cover exposed skin when outside. Pets should be brought indoors, and precautions should be taken to protect vulnerable plumbing from freezing.
For commuters, outdoor workers, and students, early morning and nighttime hours pose the greatest risk. Even brief exposure can become dangerous under these conditions.
Officials encourage residents to continue monitoring forecasts and wind chill advisories through the weekend as the arctic air mass remains in place.
