New York – Snow bands sharpen over the dark waters of Lakes Erie and Ontario early Monday, a familiar warning sign across Western New York. By late afternoon, flakes thicken, winds rise, and a long-duration lake-effect siege begins.
The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued Winter Storm Warnings for much of Western and Central New York, starting as early as 1 to 7 p.m. Monday and lasting into Thursday or even Saturday in some areas. Snow totals of 1 to 3 feet are expected, with locally higher amounts where lake bands persist.
Counties at highest risk include Southern Erie, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Wyoming, Oswego, Lewis, Wayne, and Northern Cayuga. The Tug Hill Plateau, south of Watertown and Fort Drum, remains a prime target for 2 to 3 feet of snow. Wind gusts of 55 to 65 mph will create blowing snow and near-whiteout conditions at times.
Travel impacts will escalate quickly. Roads may become impassable during intense bands, especially tonight through Tuesday evening. Conditions can change within minutes, even across short distances. Drivers are urged to avoid nonessential travel once snow intensifies.
In Jefferson County, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect this morning for light freezing rain before the snow arrives later today. That early glaze could worsen road conditions before heavier snow begins.
Lake-effect snow is expected to oscillate through midweek, meaning some communities may see repeated rounds of heavy snow while nearby areas see breaks. To be fair, snowfall totals will vary sharply, but impacts will be widespread.
Looking ahead, this storm threatens year-end travel and New Year’s Day 2026 plans, with lingering snow and drifting continuing into the first days of January. Keep emergency kits ready, monitor road conditions, and prepare for prolonged winter disruptions.
