Buffalo, NY – An arctic blast tightening its grip on Western New York will keep temperatures dangerously low and snow piling up through the week, with wind chills plunging into the single digits and lake effect snow causing visibility issues and hazardous roads.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, daytime highs will run 10 to 20 degrees below average through Saturday, with overnight lows sinking 5 to 15 degrees below normal. Winds out of the west will push bitterly cold air across the region, generating wind chills between 0°F and 10°F across cities like Rochester, Jamestown, and Batavia.
Heavy lake effect snow is expected southeast and east of Lake Ontario, particularly impacting communities in northern and central Western New York. Snow bands could bring periods of near-whiteout conditions in places like Lowville and Fulton, while lighter snow is forecast for Buffalo, Dunkirk, and Olean. Blowing and drifting snow will remain a concern on open roadways, especially overnight and during early commutes.
Travelers should limit non-essential driving, especially in areas experiencing heavy lake effect snow. Keep phones charged, bundle up, and avoid extended outdoor exposure.
Lake effect snow and cold wind advisories remain in effect through the weekend, with additional warnings possible as the cold snap lingers.
