New York – Snow lifts off Lake Erie in fast-moving bands, rattling windows and whitening roads in minutes. The air feels sharp and dry, and visibility drops without warning as Winter Weather tightens across Western New York heading into the weekend.
Travel conditions continue to deteriorate across the state’s western counties as lake-effect snow and blowing snow remain active, with a more significant Winter Weather setup expected Saturday into early Monday. According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through Friday afternoon, while a Winter Storm Watch is posted from late Saturday night through Monday evening.
Across Northern Erie and Genesee counties, persistent lake snow south and east of Buffalo is producing additional accumulations of 4 to 9 inches in the most active bands. Winds gusting up to 40 mph are causing blowing and drifting snow, sharply reducing visibility on short notice. Roads including I-90, Route 219, and Route 33 may turn slick quickly, especially during heavier bursts.
In Buffalo, daytime temperatures remain bitterly cold, struggling to reach the teens this weekend. Snow chances increase again Saturday night, with widespread snow expected Sunday. Even modest daytime melting may refreeze quickly, creating flash-freeze conditions by evening. Drivers should plan extra time and avoid sudden braking during snow squalls.
Looking ahead, colder-than-normal air lingers into early next week. Additional snow chances remain possible, with precipitation signals increasing regionally beyond Monday. Residents are urged to prepare vehicles now, limit unnecessary travel during heavier snow, and protect pets from the cold.
Seeing heavy snow where you live? Share what conditions look like in your neighborhood.
Five Day Outlook for Buffalo, NY
- Friday: Patchy blowing snow, breezy. High near 14°F
- Saturday: Mostly sunny and very cold. High near 10°F
- Saturday Night: Snow showers develop late. Low near 2°F
- Sunday: Snow likely with reduced visibility. High near 15°F
- Monday: Scattered snow showers. High near 17°F
