Weather
Buffalo, NY Weather Alert Oct. 13: Damaging Winds, Hail Possible 3-8 PM
Buffalo, NY – Portions of western and north central New York could experience isolated severe thunderstorms Tuesday afternoon, October 13, with damaging wind gusts reaching 60 mph possible as multiple
By Cole Barrett · 2026-10-13T08:42:48.772Z
Buffalo, NY – Portions of western and north central New York could experience isolated severe thunderstorms Tuesday afternoon, October 13, with damaging wind gusts reaching 60 mph possible as multiple rounds of showers and storms move across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, several rounds of showers and thunderstorms are possible throughout Tuesday, with a few storms potentially becoming severe during the afternoon and early evening.
However, forecasters emphasize that confidence remains low because earlier rainfall and thunderstorm activity could limit how unstable the atmosphere becomes later in the day.
Severe Storm Risk Between 3 and 8 PM
The National Weather Service identifies the greatest severe weather concern between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tuesday.
A Level 1 out of 5 severe weather risk covers portions of the region, indicating isolated severe thunderstorms are possible.
Communities around Buffalo, Rochester, Niagara Falls, Oswego and Fulton are among the locations near the highlighted risk area, although the threat varies geographically.
The primary hazard is isolated damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, which could bring down tree limbs and cause localized power outages.
Hail and Heavy Rain Also Possible
In addition to strong winds, isolated large hail and locally heavy rainfall are possible with stronger thunderstorms.
The National Weather Service also indicates that tornadoes cannot be completely ruled out, although they are not identified as the primary threat.
Not every community will experience severe weather, and some areas may only see ordinary showers and thunderstorms.
Forecast Confidence Remains Low
The biggest uncertainty involves how much the atmosphere can recover from Tuesday morning's rain and thunderstorms.
If sufficient instability develops, isolated storms could intensify during the afternoon. If the atmosphere remains relatively stable, the severe weather threat could be reduced.
Residents should monitor weather updates throughout the day and have multiple ways to receive warnings.
The National Weather Service advises moving indoors when thunder is heard and seeking appropriate shelter if severe thunderstorm warnings are issued.