Buffalo, New York – A soaking rainfall combined with snowmelt may cause travel disruptions and localized flooding across western New York beginning early Wednesday.
According to the US National Weather Service in Buffalo, a weak system will pass through tonight before a more impactful round of precipitation arrives early Wednesday and continues through Wednesday night.
For western New York, including Buffalo and Jamestown, the event is expected to bring primarily rain. Forecast rainfall totals range from 0.50 to 1.00 inch. When combined with melting snowpack, runoff could lead to rises on creeks and streams. Officials note that thick river ice may begin to break apart, potentially leading to localized ice jams and minor flooding concerns.
Farther north and east, including Rochester, the Finger Lakes, and toward Watertown, a mix of precipitation types is possible Wednesday into Wednesday night. Snowfall amounts of 3 to 5 inches are possible, with the greatest totals across the Tug Hill region. Light ice accumulations — generally a trace to a few hundredths of an inch — cannot be ruled out in transition zones.
Drivers along Interstate 90, Interstate 86, Interstate 490, and Interstate 81 should prepare for wet pavement in western counties and potentially slick, snow-covered roads farther north and east. Reduced visibility is possible during heavier bands of precipitation.
The midweek system may affect morning and evening commutes, especially where rain transitions to snow.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts at weather.gov/buf as precipitation types and amounts become more certain.
