Orchard Park, New York – Drivers across the Buffalo Southtowns and nearby hilltops could face dangerous whiteout conditions before late morning Saturday as strong winds combine with bursts of heavy snow across western New York.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 11 a.m. Saturday for Wyoming, Cattaraugus, and southern Erie counties, including Orchard Park, Springville, Olean, and Warsaw.
Forecasters expect an additional 3 to 6 inches of snow, with wind gusts reaching 65 mph. The combination of falling snow and powerful winds will produce blowing snow capable of reducing visibility below one-quarter mile at times.
Higher elevations across Wyoming County ridges are expected to see the greatest snowfall totals, while slightly lower amounts are likely across hilltops in southern Erie and northern Cattaraugus counties. Lower elevations in the Buffalo Southtowns may see closer to 1 to 3 inches.
Roads including U.S. Route 219, Route 16, and portions of the New York State Thruway corridor may experience rapidly changing visibility and slippery pavement during the morning hours.
Officials urge drivers to slow down, allow extra travel time, and avoid unnecessary trips until conditions improve.
Snow and blowing snow should gradually ease late Saturday morning, though icy spots and drifting snow could continue affecting travel into the afternoon.
