Buffalo, New York – Drivers across the Buffalo metro should brace for rapidly worsening travel conditions today as organized lake effect snow bands intensify and move south, threatening near-whiteout conditions during the evening commute. Gusty winds and heavy snowfall are expected to combine, making visibility drop quickly on major roadways.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, lake effect snow will strengthen northeast of Lake Erie this morning before sliding south across the Buffalo metro later today as an Arctic front pushes through. Winds are expected to increase this afternoon, with gusts approaching 50 mph, leading to significant blowing and drifting snow and hazardous travel conditions.
Roadways including I-90, I-190, Route 33, and the Kensington Expressway are likely to see the sharpest impacts during peak travel hours. Brief whiteouts are possible, especially in open areas and along lake-influenced corridors. NYSDOT crews warn that snow-covered roads may redevelop quickly despite treatment, and travel delays are likely.
Motorists are urged to avoid unnecessary travel later today, slow down significantly if driving is unavoidable, and allow extra stopping distance. Conditions remain dangerous into tonight as snow bands persist, and additional advisories or warnings may be issued as the storm evolves.
