Jamestown, NY – Residents across western New York are being urged to prepare for dangerously cold conditions overnight as the National Weather Service issues a Cold Weather Advisory for several counties south and east of Buffalo.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, the advisory will be in effect from 10 p.m. Monday through 1 p.m. EST Tuesday, with bitterly cold wind chills dropping as low as 20 degrees below zero. Officials warn these conditions can quickly become dangerous for anyone spending time outdoors without proper protection.
The advisory covers Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany counties, including the cities of Jamestown, Olean, Wellsville, and Warsaw. The coldest conditions are expected overnight and during the early morning hours Tuesday, when winds combine with already frigid temperatures to produce life-threatening wind chills.
Meteorologists warn that frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, with an increased risk of hypothermia during prolonged exposure. Rural areas and higher terrain may experience even colder wind chills.
Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, dress in multiple layers, and cover all exposed skin, including hands, ears, and face. Pets should be kept indoors, and outdoor animals should have access to warm shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
Drivers traveling overnight are encouraged to carry emergency supplies in case of vehicle trouble, as cold exposure can become dangerous quickly if stranded.
Temperatures are expected to slowly moderate Tuesday afternoon, but officials stress that overnight and early-morning hours pose the greatest risk.
Residents should continue to monitor local forecasts and heed all weather advisories as this Arctic air mass impacts western New York.
