Buffalo, NY – Portions of western and central New York are preparing for a significant round of lake-effect snow this weekend, with some localized areas forecast to receive nearly 20 inches by Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, another prolonged period of accumulating lake-effect snow will begin Saturday behind a passing cold front and continue into Monday morning. The snow will fall in several waves, rather than continuously, but impacts are expected to build over time.
Forecast maps show the heaviest totals—12 to 18 inches, with isolated higher amounts—possible in lake-effect-prone areas southeast of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, including parts of Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Oswego, and Lewis counties. Communities near Jamestown, Dunkirk, Pulaski, and Fulton appear most at risk for higher accumulations.
Lighter, but still impactful snowfall of 3 to 6 inches is expected across the Buffalo, Rochester, and Batavia areas, while some inland locations may see lower totals depending on band placement.
The National Weather Service notes that snowfall intensity will vary by location and timing, with the greatest impacts expected Saturday night into Sunday, particularly east of Lake Ontario where snow bands may become more persistent. Travel conditions could deteriorate quickly during heavier bursts, especially overnight and during early morning hours.
Drivers are urged to monitor local forecasts closely, allow extra travel time, and be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions through the weekend.
