Orchard Park, NY – A powerful lake-effect snowstorm is expected to bring dangerous and potentially life-threatening travel conditions to the Buffalo Southtowns beginning Monday morning and lasting through midweek.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 7 a.m. Monday to 4 p.m. Wednesday for southern Erie County, including Orchard Park. Snow totals of 10 to 20 inches are forecast, with wind gusts up to 50 mph producing significant blowing and drifting snow.
The most hazardous travel conditions are expected along Route 219, Route 20A, and Route 400, particularly during periods of intense snowfall. Forecasters warn that snowfall rates could reach 2 inches per hour Monday afternoon through Tuesday morning, creating near-zero visibility and whiteout conditions.
The storm is expected to impact the Monday evening through Wednesday morning commutes, with deep snow-covered roads and rapidly changing visibility making travel treacherous or impossible at times.
Strong winds may also down tree branches and cause isolated power outages, while wind chill values between 5 and 15 degrees below zero could increase the danger for stranded motorists.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, complete preparations early, and monitor forecast updates closely as snowbands shift.
