Buffalo, NY – Boaters on Lake Erie and Lake Ontario are being urged to remain in port today as gale-force winds and hazardous waves develop across western and northern New York waters, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo.
A Gale Warning remains in effect from 10 a.m. Wednesday through 10 p.m. for Lake Erie, and from 1 p.m. Wednesday through 1 a.m. Thursday for Lake Ontario. Winds are expected to reach 35 to 40 knots, with waves as high as 15 feet on Lake Erie and up to 17 feet on Lake Ontario.
The strongest winds will occur this afternoon and evening as a cold front pushes east across the Great Lakes, shifting winds from southwest to northwest and creating dangerous conditions for all vessels, especially smaller craft.
A Small Craft Advisory remains in effect earlier this morning for both lakes as winds strengthen. Mariners are advised to secure equipment, seek safe harbor, and avoid open water until conditions ease overnight.
Winds and waves are expected to gradually subside early Thursday morning, though choppy conditions may persist through the day.
