Buffalo, New York – Snow showers were expected to continue across western and north-central New York on Wednesday afternoon, before shifting into more organized lake-effect snow that could reduce visibility and make roads slick Wednesday night into Thursday morning, according to the National Weather Service.
The National Weather Service office in Buffalo said scattered to briefly more numerous snow showers would persist through the afternoon, including a few bursts of moderate snowfall and minor accumulations.
Forecasters said conditions are expected to change later Wednesday, as snow showers transition to localized moderate to heavy lake-effect snowfall developing east and southeast of Lake Ontario. The weather service said those lake-effect bands could continue through Thursday morning, increasing the risk of slippery travel and poor visibility.
A Winter Weather Advisory was in effect for portions of the region and was listed as valid through 7 a.m. Thursday, the weather service said. The advisory highlights the potential for travel hazards during heavier bursts, when visibility can drop quickly and untreated roads can become snow-covered.
Drivers were urged to slow down, leave extra distance, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, especially during the evening and overnight hours when lake-effect bands can intensify over short distances. The weather service also warned that brief, heavier bursts of snow can make it difficult to see lane markings and other vehicles.
For commuters, students, and workers with early schedules, the most disruptive window could be late Wednesday night into the Thursday morning drive, particularly in areas east and southeast of Lake Ontario where the heaviest snow is most likely.
The National Weather Service said residents should continue monitoring updates as the timing and placement of the most intense lake-effect bands become clearer.
