Buffalo, NY – A powerful early winter setup is taking shape across New York for the long Thanksgiving weekend, with the potential for heavy lake-effect snow and travel disruptions from November 28–30. The coldest air of the season so far will pour across the Great Lakes, igniting intense snow bands east and southeast of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Buffalo and Binghamton, NY, a moderate risk of heavy snow is in effect for western and upstate New York, including the Buffalo metro, from Black Friday into Saturday. Forecasters expect snowfall rates of 1–2 inches per hour at times within the strongest bands, with local totals over 10 inches possible near Buffalo and Watertown. Wind gusts up to 40 mph could produce whiteout conditions and drifting snow on I-90 and I-86.
According to the New York State Department of Transportation, motorists should expect rapidly changing conditions, especially south of Buffalo, east of Rochester, and across the Tug Hill Plateau. Air travelers may face delays or cancellations as visibility drops to near zero in heavier bursts.
Temperatures will remain 10–20 degrees below normal through the weekend, with highs in the 20s and low 30s and wind chills in the teens. Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, check power supplies, and dress in layers if venturing outdoors.
