New York — Breath hangs in the air at sunrise as steel-gray clouds drift over Lake Erie and sidewalks crunch under frozen boots. The first morning of 2026 arrives sharply cold in western New York, with winter clearly in control.
Early temperatures sit near 12 degrees in Buffalo, with wind chills close to zero. Northwest winds add bite through the morning, making it feel harsher than the thermometer suggests. A few snow showers may pass through late morning into early afternoon, though accumulations stay light for now.
Travel remains manageable today, but untreated roads and bridges can turn slick quickly. Drivers should stay alert on I-90, Route 33, and city arterials where brief snow bursts reduce visibility. For now, snowfall remains scattered rather than steady.
Tonight brings another cold drop. Lows fall into the mid-teens as clouds linger. A weak disturbance may trigger additional snow showers, though totals remain under an inch. Even light snow can create flash-freeze issues once traffic thins and temperatures fall.
Friday offers a brief break. Skies turn partly sunny, but highs struggle to reach the mid-20s. Winds stay brisk, keeping wind chills in the teens. It looks quiet, but the calm does not last.
Attention shifts to the weekend. Lake-enhanced snow showers become more likely Saturday night into Sunday. Cold air crossing Lake Erie may fuel periods of snow, especially south of Buffalo. While widespread heavy snow is not guaranteed, bursts could impact travel quickly.
Sunday stays cold and mostly cloudy, with highs near 28 degrees. Snow chances linger into early afternoon before tapering. Another round of snow showers is possible early next week as winter settles deeper into January.
For now, bundle up, allow extra travel time, and watch for changing conditions near the lake. Heading out this weekend? Tell us what you’re seeing where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for Buffalo, NY
- New Year’s Day: Slight chance snow showers; high near 21°F
- Friday: Partly sunny; high near 24°F
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy; high near 26°F
- Sunday: Chance snow showers; high near 28°F
- Monday: Snow showers likely; high near 30°F
