Buffalo, NY – A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect for multiple counties east of Lakes Erie and Ontario beginning Wednesday evening, with forecasters warning of potentially heavy lake-effect snow and hazardous holiday travel conditions, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Buffalo office.
According to forecasters, a colder airmass combined with gusty winds will move into the region Wednesday afternoon into Wednesday night, allowing lake-effect snow to rapidly develop downwind of both lakes. Bands will first form east to northeast of Lakes Erie and Ontario before shifting east to southeast on Thursday and Friday.
The Winter Storm Watch includes:
- Southern Erie, Wyoming, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus counties: Valid Wednesday evening through Friday evening.
- Northern Erie and Genesee counties: Valid Wednesday evening through Thursday evening.
- Lewis and Jefferson counties: Valid late Wednesday night through Friday evening.
- Oswego County: Valid late Wednesday night through Saturday morning.
Forecasters say the greatest snow accumulations are expected well south of Buffalo and south and east of Watertown, with long-lasting bands capable of producing significant totals. Gusty winds of 40–50 mph may accompany the snow, creating areas of blowing and drifting, sharply reduced visibility, and isolated whiteout conditions.
The timing of the event aligns with one of the busiest travel periods of the year, raising concerns for motorists across Western New York, the Southern Tier, and the eastern Lake Ontario region. Strong winds may also cause isolated power outages.
NWS Buffalo urges residents and travelers to prepare for rapidly changing conditions, stay alert for updated forecasts, and consider adjusting travel plans where possible.
