Buffalo, N.Y. – Gardeners across Western New York should take immediate precautions as a late-season frost threatens to damage sensitive plants between 2 and 8 a.m. Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, temperatures are expected to dip into the low to mid-30s overnight, prompting a Frost Advisory for Erie, Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston, Ontario, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany counties.
The advisory covers a wide swath of western and southern tier communities, including Buffalo, Batavia, Jamestown, and Canandaigua. Cold air settling in under clear skies could result in widespread frost formation, particularly in outlying areas and valleys.
If you’re in Orchard Park or Springville, even well-established plants may be at risk. Residents are urged to cover gardens, move potted plants indoors, or use insulated coverings where possible.
While May frosts aren’t unheard of, this event comes after a relatively warm stretch, making unprotected vegetation especially vulnerable.
The advisory expires at 8 a.m. Tuesday, but with clear skies persisting, additional alerts could be issued if the cold lingers into midweek.