Buffalo, NY – Gusty southwest winds up to 40 mph and light snow could affect Wednesday travel across western and north-central New York.
According to the US National Weather Service Buffalo, widespread light to moderate snow will come to an end across most of the region this morning. Additional scattered snow showers are expected to develop this afternoon, with a few brief bursts of moderate snowfall possible.
Snow totals early Wednesday range from 1 to 2 inches across Buffalo, Rochester, Batavia and areas along Interstate 90. Higher elevations east of Lake Ontario, including the Tug Hill region near Watertown and along Interstate 81, could see 3 to 4 inches through this evening. Forecasters noted that marginal temperatures will limit accumulations in lower elevations.
Southwest wind gusts are expected to increase late Wednesday morning into the afternoon, reaching 30 to 40 mph across much of western New York. The strongest gusts are anticipated northeast of Lake Erie, including areas near Buffalo, Lockport and Rochester. Winds are expected to diminish later this evening.
The National Weather Service indicated there is a low risk of blowing snow due to above-freezing temperatures during the day. However, brief visibility reductions may occur in heavier snow showers.
The combination of gusty winds and light accumulating snow may slow commutes along I-90, I-290 and I-81, particularly during the afternoon hours. Students and late-shift workers should allow extra travel time where brief snow bursts develop.
