Buffalo, New York – Strong thunderstorms could develop across western New York Saturday with risks for damaging winds and hail.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, two frontal systems moving through the region from late Friday night through Saturday evening will bring active weather across western and central New York.
The first system, a warm front arriving overnight into Saturday morning, may produce scattered showers and a few thunderstorms.
A second system, associated with a cold front Saturday afternoon and evening, could trigger stronger storms as it moves across western New York.
Forecasters say a few storms may become severe, especially across western portions of the state including areas around Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Jamestown.
The Storm Prediction Center places parts of western New York under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe thunderstorms Saturday.
Meteorologists say the primary hazard will be damaging wind gusts exceeding 60 mph, which could bring down tree limbs or power lines. Additional threats include large hail capable of damaging vehicles or property, while an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out.
Drivers traveling along major routes including Interstate 90, Interstate 190, and Interstate 86 may encounter heavy rain, lightning, and strong wind gusts if storms develop during the afternoon or evening.
Forecasters note that cloud cover earlier in the day could limit instability, which may reduce storm intensity in some areas. Winds moving over the colder waters of Lake Erie could also stabilize conditions near the lakeshore.
Any remaining showers and thunderstorms are expected to move east of the region by late Saturday night, bringing improving weather conditions afterward.
Residents across western New York are encouraged to monitor forecast updates and ensure they have multiple ways to receive severe weather warnings.
