Buffalo, New York – A mid-January warm-up could bring periods of rain to western New York while increasing the risk of freezing rain and icy travel conditions inland as temperatures fluctuate near the freezing mark.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, western New York is favored to see above-normal temperatures during the January 9–13 period, with precipitation trending near normal. This pattern often supports rain near the lakes while colder air lingers longer across higher terrain and interior valleys.
Areas east and southeast of Buffalo, including the Genesee Valley, Wyoming County, and the higher elevations of the Southern Tier, may be most vulnerable to freezing rain, particularly during overnight and early morning hours. Even light ice accumulation could create hazardous travel on Route 219, Route 400, and rural secondary roads.
Closer to Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, including Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Rochester, precipitation is more likely to fall as rain, limiting snow chances but leading to wet roads and reduced visibility during heavier showers. Brief nighttime cooling could still allow isolated icy patches on bridges and overpasses.
Drivers are encouraged to monitor changing conditions closely and allow extra time for travel. Additional advisories may be issued as the period approaches, especially if colder air becomes more entrenched across interior sections of western New York.
