Weather
NY Weather Alert: Buffalo Rain Turns to Snow Thursday, Nov 12
New York — Rain soaked pavement, gusty winds and the possibility of wet snow will bring a sharp November weather change to Buffalo.
By Owen Prescott · 2026-11-11T09:19:04.804Z
New York — Rain soaked pavement, gusty winds and the possibility of wet snow will bring a sharp November weather change to Buffalo.
After temperatures reach approximately 55 degrees Wednesday, colder air will push readings toward freezing by Friday night.
The transition begins Thursday, with widespread rain giving way to a rain and snow mix as temperatures fall.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, Thursday brings a 100% chance of rain, followed by a 70% chance of precipitation Thursday night.
Snow showers could continue periodically into Saturday, creating an early reminder that winter weather is approaching western New York.
Thursday Brings Widespread Rain and Gusty Winds Thursday, November 12, looks particularly wet across Buffalo and Erie County.
Temperatures reach approximately 46 degrees, while north winds increase to 10 to 14 mph.
Wind gusts could reach 24 mph, making conditions feel colder.
The National Weather Service expects between one quarter and one half inch of rain.
Drivers along Interstate 90, Interstate 190 and Route 33 should prepare for wet pavement and reduced visibility during steadier rainfall.
Thursday night brings the more significant change.
Rain remains likely before 10 p.m., followed by rain and snow showers through approximately 4 a.m. Friday.
Afterward, snow showers remain possible.
Temperatures fall toward 35 degrees, with precipitation chances reaching 70%.
Friday Snow Chances Continue as Temperatures Fall Friday, November 13, brings mostly cloudy skies and highs near 42 degrees.
Snow showers remain possible before 10 a.m., followed by periods of mixed rain and snow.
Precipitation chances reach 50%, although expected amounts remain below one tenth of an inch.
North winds of 8 to 10 mph will add a brisk November chill.
By Friday night, temperatures fall toward 32 degrees.
A 40% chance of rain and snow showers continues, with periods of snow possible.
That combination raises concerns about isolated slippery surfaces where temperatures reach freezing.
However, widespread flash freezing is not specifically predicted.
Saturday Keeps Snow in the Picture Saturday, November 14, brings another opportunity for wintry precipitation.
The National Weather Service indicates a 30% chance of rain and snow showers before 1 p.m.
Temperatures reach approximately 43 degrees, making widespread snow accumulation less certain.
For now, the supplied forecast does not specify measurable snowfall totals.
Still, drivers should remain alert during any brief snow showers, particularly on elevated roads and bridges.
Saturday night turns mostly cloudy, with lows near 34 degrees.
Sunday Brings a Break From Wintry Showers Sunday, November 15, offers a quieter weather pattern.
Mostly cloudy skies continue, with highs near 46 degrees.
The broader Weather Prediction Center outlook highlights an unusually strong push of polar air across the eastern United States.
Cold air crossing the relatively warm Great Lakes can support lake effect precipitation, although no specific lake effect snow accumulation is established for Buffalo in this local outlook.
Five Day Buffalo Weather Outlook Thursday, Nov. 12: Rain, high 46°F. Precipitation chance 100%. Wind gusts up to 24 mph. Low 35°F, with rain and snow likely. Friday, Nov. 13: Rain and snow showers possible, high 42°F. Precipitation chance 50%. Low 32°F. Saturday, Nov. 14: Chance of rain and snow before afternoon, high 43°F. Precipitation chance 30%. Low 34°F. Sunday, Nov. 15: Mostly cloudy, high 46°F. Low 34°F. Monday, Nov. 16: Mostly cloudy, high 47°F. Low 32°F. Tuesday, November 17, brings partly sunny skies and highs near 48 degrees.
Looking toward Thanksgiving, additional cold spells and lake effect snow opportunities remain possible as November progresses. However, no specific Buffalo snowstorm is established by the available guidance.
Are you ready for Buffalo's return to snow showers, or hoping the milder November temperatures stick around? Tell us what conditions look like in your neighborhood.