Buffalo, New York – Snow will continue across the Buffalo area Thursday, with lake-enhanced snowfall expected to persist into Friday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo.
Forecasters say snow coverage will gradually decrease later Thursday, but areas downwind of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, including the Buffalo metro region, will see the longest-lasting snowfall due to continued lake-effect and lake-enhanced bands.
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for Erie County, including Buffalo, until 7 p.m. Thursday, with additional warnings continuing later into Friday for counties farther east. The National Weather Service warns that snowfall rates may vary significantly by location, with brief periods of heavier snow possible in persistent bands.
Additional snowfall totals from Thursday morning through Friday are expected to range from 4 to 6 inches in and around Buffalo, with higher amounts east of the city. Portions of the eastern Lake Ontario region could see 6 to 12 inches of snow before the event winds down.
The Winter Weather Impacts Timeline shows impacts increasing Thursday afternoon, continuing through Thursday night, and lingering into Friday morning, especially for the morning commute. Snow-covered roads and reduced visibility are expected, particularly during heavier bursts of lake-effect snow.
Temperatures will remain cold enough to support all snow, and untreated roads may become slick and snow-packed. Travel conditions may improve briefly outside of snow bands but can deteriorate quickly when bands shift.
The National Weather Service advises motorists to be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions, allow extra travel time, and use caution when driving in lake-effect snow.
Commuters, delivery drivers, and students in the Buffalo area should anticipate continued travel disruptions through at least Friday morning as lake-effect snow gradually weakens.
