New York — Cold air bites across Western New York this Monday morning, with Buffalo waking to temperatures near 20 degrees. Wind chills dip into the teens, and pavement feels stiff underfoot. Winter has arrived with purpose, and travel conditions may change quickly later today.
Skies turn cloudier through the morning. By afternoon, light snow becomes possible across the Buffalo metro. Accumulations look minor, but timing matters. Snow could fall during late-day travel, especially along I-90 and Route 33. Drivers should slow down and watch for slick spots as daylight fades.
Snow intensifies this evening, then begins mixing with rain overnight as temperatures hover near freezing. That changeover raises concern for slushy roads and patchy black ice. Bridges and untreated side streets may freeze quickly once precipitation tapers.
Tuesday keeps the region unsettled. Rain and snow mix through the morning, then transition to mostly rain midday. Winds strengthen, gusting over 25 mph at times. Any leftover slush may refreeze as colder air sneaks back in later.
By Wednesday, calmer weather returns. Clouds linger, but highs reach the mid-30s. Christmas Eve trends quieter and milder, with highs climbing into the low 40s. That’s welcome news for holiday travelers after a messy start to the week.
While major snow totals are not expected, small changes in temperature will matter. Even a degree or two could flip rain back to snow briefly. Meteorologists continue watching lake influences closely.
Action steps: allow extra travel time today, treat sidewalks early, and stay alert for flash freezing after precipitation ends.
5-Day Outlook for Buffalo, NY
- Monday: Chance of snow late, high near 37
- Tuesday: Rain/snow mix, windy, high near 42
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 35
- Christmas Day: Mostly cloudy, high near 43
- Thursday: Showers possible, high near 49
