Buffalo, NY – A series of Winter Storm Watches has been issued across western and northern New York, as multiple rounds of lake effect snow are expected to impact Thanksgiving travel from Wednesday evening through Saturday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo.
The watch covers areas from Buffalo and Batavia east to Watertown, Oswego, and Lowville, including Erie, Genesee, Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Jefferson, Lewis, and Oswego counties. Forecasters warn of 7 inches or more of accumulation in the most persistent snow bands, with winds up to 45–50 mph producing blowing and drifting snow and near whiteout conditions.
Snow is expected to begin Wednesday night and intensify through Thanksgiving Day, especially southeast of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. Conditions may vary greatly over short distances — one town could see heavy snow while another just a few miles away remains dry.
The NWS cautions that travel could become treacherous with slick, snow-covered roads and poor visibility. Gusty winds could also cause isolated power outages. Drivers are urged to review travel plans, carry emergency kits, and stay tuned for forecast updates as this long-duration event develops.
