Buffalo, N.Y. – Persistent lake-effect rain is drenching western New York today, with heavy downpours centered around the Buffalo metro and nearby suburbs. The National Weather Service says the multi-day event, driven by cool air passing over warmer lake waters, will continue through Thursday before slowly weakening.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, the main rain band off Lake Erie will fluctuate north and south through Wednesday night, keeping rainfall totals locally heavy from Hamburg to Tonawanda and across I-90. The agency warns of minor urban and poor-drainage flooding where storms repeatedly track over the same areas. Another band off Lake Ontario is expected to form later today, impacting Oswego and Wayne counties into Thursday.
Embedded thunderstorms and bursts of graupel are possible closer to the lakeshores, especially during the evening commute. Drivers along I-190, Route 219, and the Thruway should expect reduced visibility and ponding on roads. Outdoor activities and high school practices may face cancellations or delays due to lightning or heavy rain.
Rain intensity should ease gradually by late Thursday as winds shift westerly and cooler air filters in. Drier conditions are likely to return briefly by Friday before another weak front approaches this weekend.
