Jamestown, NY – A narrow but intense snow band is set to drop up to 12 inches across the Chautauqua Ridge before daybreak Tuesday, creating snow-covered roads and low visibility that could stall travel through the night.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for Chautauqua County until 6 a.m. Tuesday. The heaviest snowfall, between 8 and 12 inches, will focus along the higher elevations of the Chautauqua Ridge. Communities along Lake Erie and farther inland near Jamestown can expect significantly lower totals, generally 2 to 4 inches.
Drivers along Interstate 86 and Route 60 may encounter rapidly changing conditions, especially when traveling between lower elevations and the ridge. Snow bands could shift slightly, leading to sudden bursts of heavier snowfall and reduced visibility.
In Dunkirk and areas along the Lake Erie shoreline, lighter accumulations are expected, but untreated roads may still turn slick as temperatures remain below freezing.
Officials urge residents to allow extra travel time and use caution during both the evening commute and overnight hours. Road crews will continue clearing priority routes, but secondary roads may remain snow-covered into early Tuesday. The warning stays in effect until 6 a.m., and additional advisories could be issued if lake-effect snow persists.
