New York wakes up under crisp, biting air as light snow drifts across Western New York early this morning. Pavement looks damp. Sidewalks crunch. Winter’s grip has loosened slightly, but the pattern is already shifting again.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, quiet conditions today give way to a more active Weather setup by Thursday, December 18th. A strong storm system will track across the Great Lakes, bringing rain, sharply increasing winds, and a late-day temperature drop that could trigger a rain-to-snow changeover.
By Thursday afternoon, south winds strengthen quickly. Gusts may reach 40 to 50 mph, especially near open areas and along Lake Erie. Umbrellas will struggle. High-profile vehicles may feel the push on the Thruway and Route 33. Wet pavement is expected through the day as rain spreads across Buffalo and Erie County.
Colder air follows Thursday night. Temperatures fall toward the freezing mark as winds turn west. Any lingering moisture could freeze quickly, creating black ice before Friday morning. This flash-freeze setup often catches drivers off guard during December travel weeks.
Friday brings a more familiar winter feel. Highs settle near 32 degrees, with snow showers likely and brisk winds keeping wind chills lower. Light accumulations are possible, especially east of the city, though blowing snow may reduce visibility at times.
Looking ahead to the weekend, conditions stay cold but calmer. Saturday and Sunday trend mostly cloudy with scattered snow chances and highs in the low-to-mid 30s. No major storm is locked in yet, but models hint at additional winter systems next week as Christmas travel ramps up.
Five-Day Snapshot for Buffalo, NY
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 40°
- Thursday: Rain, windy, gusts 40–50 mph, high near 44°
- Friday: Snow showers, breezy, high near 32°
- Saturday: Chance of rain or snow, high near 39°
- Sunday: Mostly cloudy, scattered snow showers, high near 34°
Plan extra travel time Thursday and Friday, and watch for slick roads after sunset.
