Buffalo, New York – Strong to potentially damaging winds are expected across western and north-central New York on Friday, prompting multiple High Wind Warnings and Wind Advisories.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, southeast downslope winds along the Lake Erie shoreline and off the Tug Hill Plateau developed Friday morning, with gusts reaching up to 55 miles per hour. Forecasters said these winds will shift to south and southwest later in the day, becoming more widespread and stronger through the afternoon and evening.
Wind gusts of 50 miles per hour are expected across much of the region, with damaging gusts reaching up to 60 miles per hour along Lake Erie, the Niagara Frontier, and Monroe County. Chautauqua County, southern Erie County, the Niagara Frontier, and Monroe County are under High Wind Warnings through 10 p.m. Friday.
Wind Advisories are in effect for Jefferson and Lewis counties through 10 p.m., as well as inland portions of the Southern Tier, Finger Lakes, and Oswego County through Friday evening.
The National Weather Service warned that strong winds could result in downed trees and power lines, with power outages possible. Saturated ground conditions may increase the risk of uprooted trees. High-profile vehicles may experience difficult travel conditions, particularly along the New York State Thruway south of Buffalo.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items and remain cautious near trees and power lines. Commuters and commercial drivers should be prepared for sudden strong gusts, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.
The strongest winds are expected to gradually diminish later Friday night after advisories and warnings expire.
