New York – Wet pavement gleams under streetlights this morning as light snow mixes with rain across western parts of the state. The air feels damp, the kind that seeps into gloves, while temperatures hover near freezing. It is a subtle start, but conditions are lining up for more noticeable winter impacts as Christmas travel approaches.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, early precipitation remains light today, with minor accumulation expected before a gradual warm-up pushes readings into the low 40s. Snow melts during the day, but lingering moisture could refreeze at night, setting the stage for slick roads and patchy black ice.
Across Western New York, including Buffalo, Batavia, and areas south of the city, attention quickly turns to Friday. A fast-moving system is expected to bring snow back into the region, with periods of rain or freezing rain possible, especially south of Buffalo. Even brief freezing rain can glaze untreated roads, ramps, and sidewalks during peak post-Christmas travel.
Drivers using I-90, Route 33, and local parkways should plan extra time and slow down, particularly during early morning and evening hours. Temperatures dip back below freezing late week, increasing the risk of flash freezing once daytime melt refreezes after sunset.
Looking ahead, winter weather remains in play into the final days of December. Conditions may change quickly as systems track along the Great Lakes, and additional advisories could be issued as timing becomes clearer.
Five-Day Outlook for Buffalo, New York
• Today: Rain and snow early, turning mostly rain. High near 42.
• Wednesday: Partly sunny, colder. High near 34.
• Christmas Day: Mostly cloudy and milder. High near 39.
• Thursday Night: Colder with clouds. Lows near 21.
• Friday: Snow likely, possibly mixing with freezing rain. High near 33.
