New York wakes up locked in deep winter, with a sharp, biting cold gripping western communities before sunrise. The air feels dangerous, not just uncomfortable.
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m., covering Buffalo and much of western and north-central New York. Actual air temperatures sit near -7 degrees, while wind chills plunge as low as 20 below zero. At those levels, exposed skin can develop frostbite in as little as 30 minutes.
Morning travel remains mostly dry, but the cold dominates every outdoor task. Wind sweeps across open stretches of I-90, Route 33, and the Niagara Thruway, intensifying heat loss for drivers, roadside workers, and anyone stranded. Walking even short distances feels punishing. Limit exposure, cover all skin, and keep emergency winter gear nearby.
Sunshine returns today, but relief is limited. Highs struggle to reach the low 20s, keeping wind chills firmly below zero through much of the day. Tonight stays cold, though winds ease slightly.
By Tuesday, the pattern begins to loosen. Clouds increase, and temperatures climb toward the upper 30s, introducing a chance of rain and snow showers during the afternoon. While accumulation looks light, melting during the day followed by refreezing after sunset raises concerns for slick roads and sidewalks.
Wednesday keeps snow showers in play, with highs near 30 degrees and gusty winds redeveloping. Travel impacts remain possible, especially during bursts of lake-enhanced snow.
Looking ahead into the 6–10 day window, a broader warming trend develops across the Great Lakes. Despite Lake Erie remaining largely frozen, above-normal temperatures are favored late week into next weekend. More systems arrive, but the extreme cold relaxes.
Five-Day Outlook (Buffalo, NY)
- Today: Partly sunny, high 22°F
- Tuesday: Chance rain/snow, high 38°F
- Wednesday: Snow showers possible, high 30°F
- Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high 26°F
- Friday: Partly sunny, high 26°F
