Buffalo, N.Y. – Heavy rain and thunderstorms are set to disrupt travel and daily routines across western New York by Monday afternoon, as the latest summer weather alert targets Buffalo and nearby cities with the threat of localized flash flooding and dangerous driving on major roadways like I-90 and I-290.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, a slow-moving storm system will bring scattered showers and thunderstorms to the region from midday Monday through the evening hours. Rainfall rates could exceed a half-inch per hour in the heaviest cells, raising the risk of ponding and rapidly changing road conditions. Motorists are urged to avoid travel during heavy downpours, especially along low-lying stretches of I-90, and to allow extra time for detours or delays.
Cities at greatest risk include Buffalo, Niagara Falls, Lockport, and Cheektowaga, where public safety officials remind residents to secure outdoor items and avoid walking or driving through flooded streets. Power outages and downed tree limbs are also possible with gusty winds expected in the strongest storms.
Temperatures on Monday will reach a high near 84°F, with humidity levels climbing before a clearing trend arrives late Monday night. Tuesday brings a return to sunshine and calmer conditions, with a high near 87°F. Looking ahead, scattered storms may redevelop late Wednesday and Thursday, keeping the threat of wet weather in the forecast.
Five-Day Buffalo Area Forecast (Mon, July 14 – Fri, July 18):
- Monday: Thunderstorms after noon. High: 84°F. Heavy rain possible, especially after 2 p.m.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High: 87°F. Lower humidity, calm wind.
- Wednesday: Scattered afternoon storms. High: 87°F. Chance of rain: 40%.
- Thursday: Partly sunny, more showers likely after 2 p.m. High: 83°F. Chance of rain: 60%.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, cooler. High: 80°F. Pleasant summer weather.
