Buffalo, New York – Blizzard conditions and heavy lake-effect snow are expected to continue across the Great Lakes region through New Year’s Eve, creating dangerous travel conditions and prolonged disruptions.
According to the National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center, a powerful winter storm lifting into southeastern Canada is maintaining strong winds, heavy snow, and dangerous wind chills across multiple states. The most intense lake-effect snow is forecast downwind of Lakes Erie and Ontario, including Buffalo, Erie, and portions of central New York.
Forecast snowfall totals through Wednesday show 12 to 24 inches possible near Buffalo, with localized higher amounts in persistent snow bands. Erie, Pennsylvania, and areas south of Lake Ontario, including the Tug Hill Plateau, could see up to 18 inches by midweek. Even locations outside the heaviest bands may experience whiteout conditions due to blowing and drifting snow.
Strong winds remain a major concern. Wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph are expected across parts of Michigan, Ohio, and western New York, contributing to near-zero visibility and scattered power outages. The Detroit and Cleveland metro areas are expected to see hazardous travel conditions despite lower snowfall totals.
Dangerous cold will accompany the storm. Wind chills are expected to drop below zero across much of the Upper Midwest, with wind chills as low as -30°F reported in parts of North Dakota and northern Minnesota early this week.
Officials urge residents and holiday travelers to avoid unnecessary travel through New Year’s Eve, monitor local advisories, and prepare for rapidly changing conditions, especially near lake-effect snow belts.
