Buffalo, New York – A Snow Squall Warning remains in effect until 4:30 p.m. Tuesday for portions of western New York, as a fast-moving band of heavy snow creates dangerous travel conditions with little notice.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, radar and webcam data confirmed an observed snow squall moving east at approximately 30 mph. The squall is producing intense bursts of heavy snow, gusty winds up to 20 mph, and rapidly falling visibility that can lead to near-whiteout conditions.
Counties included in the warning are Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, and northwestern Monroe County. Northern Erie County, southeastern Niagara County, and northwestern Wyoming County are among the areas most immediately affected.
The National Weather Service warns that travel may become difficult and potentially dangerous within minutes as the squall moves through. Interstate 90 is specifically impacted between exits 48 and 57, where sudden visibility drops and snow-covered pavement are expected.
Cities and towns affected include Buffalo, Cheektowaga, West Seneca, North Tonawanda, Clarence, Lockport, Lackawanna, Batavia, Kenmore, and Depew.
Snow squalls differ from typical winter snow showers by producing abrupt, short-lived but severe conditions that can catch drivers off guard. Even brief squalls can lead to chain-reaction crashes if motorists do not reduce speed quickly.
The National Weather Service advises drivers to slow down immediately when encountering heavy snow, turn on headlights, and be alert for sudden whiteout conditions. Conditions may improve quickly once the squall passes, but impacts during the warning period can be severe.
Commuters traveling during the late afternoon period should allow extra time or delay travel until the warning expires.
