New York – Heavy lake effect snow continues across parts of western New York Friday, creating dangerous travel conditions and significant snow accumulations through the evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 10 p.m. EST Friday for Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and southern Erie counties. The most intense snowfall is expected along the Lake Erie shoreline, the Boston Hills, and the Chautauqua Ridge.
Forecasters report additional snow accumulations of 8 to 14 inches, with the majority of snowfall occurring this morning. Lake effect snow is expected to gradually weaken later Friday afternoon, though hazardous conditions may persist into the evening.
Officials warn that travel will be very difficult, with deep snow covering roadways and very poor visibility at times. Conditions are expected to significantly impact the Friday morning commute, particularly in areas under persistent snow bands where visibility can drop rapidly.
The National Weather Service notes that lake effect snow can vary sharply over short distances, with heavy snow and near-whiteout conditions possible just miles away from dry or lightly snow-covered areas. Drivers are urged to remain alert for sudden changes in road and weather conditions.
Residents are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel and submit snowfall reports through official weather service channels or social media when safe to do so.
For commuters, students, and workers across the Lake Erie snowbelt, the warning highlights continued disruptions to travel and daily routines through the end of the day.
