NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. – Western New York will see its first meaningful snow of the season today as cold air rushes over the region, turning morning rain into wet, accumulating snow by afternoon. The wintry mix will make for slippery travel and poor visibility, especially heading into the Monday morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 10 a.m. Sunday through 7 a.m. Monday for Niagara and Orleans Counties. Forecasters expect 3 to 5 inches of snow, with the heaviest bursts likely this afternoon and evening as temperatures drop toward freezing.
Roadways along I-190, Route 31, and Route 104 will transition from wet to slick, particularly in open areas north and west of Buffalo. Early accumulations will coat grassy and elevated surfaces, but heavier bursts may briefly cover roads late today. Drivers should reduce speed, use headlights, and allow extra distance during the evening hours when visibility could fall below a half-mile in heavier snow bands.
While the snow tapers off overnight, temperatures near freezing will leave icy patches into Monday morning. The system marks the first true taste of winter across the Niagara Frontier, with another cold front expected to reinforce the chill midweek.
