Buffalo, New York – Strong to damaging southwest wind gusts are expected across western New York this afternoon and evening, with the highest impacts near Lake Erie and the Niagara Frontier.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service in Buffalo, wind gusts will increase to around 50 mph across much of the region, with gusts up to 65 mph possible along Lake Erie, the Niagara Frontier, Monroe County, and parts of the North Country. The strongest winds are expected during the afternoon and early evening hours.
Forecasters said peak southwest wind gusts for western New York are most likely between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. East of Lake Ontario, peak gusts are expected slightly later, generally between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., as the wind field shifts eastward.
The National Weather Service warned that strong gusts may result in downed trees and power lines, leading to scattered power outages. Saturated ground conditions could increase the risk of trees being uprooted, even outside the strongest wind corridors.
Forecast graphics show widespread gusts in the 45 to 55 mph range, with locally higher gusts near lakeshores and exposed areas. Winds are expected to gradually diminish later this evening as the system moves east.
Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor objects and avoid parking vehicles near trees or power lines. Drivers of high-profile vehicles may experience difficult travel, especially on north-south roadways.
Utility crews and emergency managers are monitoring conditions as the strongest winds move through the region.
For commuters, evening travelers, and shift workers across western New York, the peak wind window may impact travel and power reliability through early tonight.
