Buffalo, N.Y. – Tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail are expected to threaten western New York by Tuesday afternoon, with the greatest risk focused around Buffalo, Rochester, and the Finger Lakes region.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service in Buffalo, a Level 3 (Enhanced Risk) alert is in effect for much of western and central New York beginning Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Severe storms are expected to develop after 2 p.m., with damaging wind gusts over 60 mph, large hail up to two inches, and isolated tornadoes all possible through the evening hours.
Cities including Buffalo, Rochester, Niagara Falls, and Batavia are directly in the storm path. Residents in these areas should prepare for downed trees, widespread power outages, and dangerous travel conditions, especially along the New York State Thruway (I-90) and major connectors like I-390 and Route 219. Emergency officials urge residents to have multiple ways to receive warnings, such as NOAA Weather Radios and wireless alerts, and to avoid unnecessary travel during severe storms.
This system could bring the most widespread tornado threat to western New York since 2021. Storms are expected to weaken overnight, but additional watches and warnings may be issued throughout Tuesday evening.
