Western New York remains under a Winter Storm Warning as prolonged lake effect snow threatens dangerous travel conditions through early Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, heavy snow is expected across Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and southern Erie counties, including the communities of Warsaw, Jamestown, Olean, Orchard Park, and Springville. Total snowfall accumulations of 1 to 3 feet are forecast by the time the warning expires at 1 a.m. EST Friday.
Strong winds will significantly worsen conditions, with gusts reaching 45 mph at times, especially today. These winds are expected to cause blowing and drifting snow, leading to occasional whiteout conditions and rapidly deteriorating visibility. Officials warn that travel may become treacherous and potentially life-threatening, particularly during periods of intense lake effect snow.
The storm is part of a long-duration lake effect event, with snow bands expected to shift repeatedly downwind of Lake Erie throughout the week. While snowfall amounts may vary sharply over short distances, areas caught under persistent bands could see locally higher totals than currently forecast.
Travel conditions are expected to remain hazardous for several days, impacting commuters, commercial drivers, and emergency services. Even brief improvements may be followed by sudden whiteouts as snow bands reorganize.
The National Weather Service urges residents to avoid unnecessary travel, monitor changing road conditions, and prepare for rapid shifts in visibility and snowfall intensity. Drivers are advised to carry winter emergency kits and allow extra time for travel.
Snowfall reports can be submitted directly to the National Weather Service through official online and social media channels.
