BUFFALO, N.Y. – Western New York is in for its first widespread frost of the fall season tonight, as clear skies and calm winds send temperatures tumbling into the upper 20s and low 30s. The National Weather Service in Buffalo warns that sensitive vegetation could be damaged or killed without protection.
According to the Weather Service, a Freeze Warning is in effect for areas east of Lake Ontario, including Watertown, Lowville, and Highmarket, where lows may dip near 30°F. A Frost Advisory covers much of western and central New York, from Buffalo and Batavia to Rochester and Canandaigua, with overnight lows ranging from 28°F in the Southern Tier to 35°F near the lakeshore.
Daytime highs today will stay seasonably cool, hovering in the lower to mid-50s under bright sunshine. By late evening, temperatures will drop quickly under clear skies, and frost will form in sheltered valleys and rural areas before midnight. Motorists may notice patchy frost on windshields Friday morning, especially on rural routes and bridges.
Residents are urged to bring in potted plants, cover tender garden crops, and ensure outdoor pets have warm shelter. Those traveling early Friday should allow extra time to clear frost from vehicles.
The chill will ease slightly into the weekend as milder air returns by Sunday, but another cold push may follow early next week.
