Buffalo, NY – A Lake Effect Snow Warning is in effect across large portions of upstate New York, with heavy, persistent snow bands expected to deliver between 8 and 16 inches of accumulation in the most impacted areas through Tuesday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo.
The most significant impacts are forecast for Jefferson, Lewis, and Oswego Counties, where lake effect snow is expected to redevelop by 7 a.m. Monday and continue through 1 p.m. Tuesday. Forecasters say the heaviest snowfall will target southern Jefferson County, western Lewis County, and the Tug Hill region, where snowfall rates could rapidly reduce visibility and bury roadways.
Additional Lake Effect Snow Warnings remain in effect through early Monday morning for Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Southern Erie, and Northern Cayuga Counties, where 2 to 6 inches of additional snow is expected before bands weaken or shift. Areas such as Jamestown, Olean, Orchard Park, Springville, and Fair Haven may still see hazardous travel overnight.
According to the National Weather Service, travel will be very difficult to dangerous, especially during the Monday morning and evening commutes, as narrow snow bands produce rapidly changing road conditions. Snow-covered highways, whiteout visibility, and drifting snow are likely in the hardest-hit areas.
Officials warn that lake effect snow can vary drastically over short distances, meaning conditions may deteriorate quickly with little warning. Motorists are urged to delay travel if possible, monitor local forecasts, and keep emergency supplies in their vehicles.
Snow is expected to gradually taper later Tuesday afternoon as wind patterns shift, allowing conditions to slowly improve across the region.
