Buffalo, N.Y. – The glow of streetlights catches a slick shimmer across Buffalo’s pavement early Thursday morning as a raw breeze moves in from Lake Erie. Clouds thicken and light rain begins to build — the first of several quick showers that will cross western New York through the next 36 hours.
Today’s system will deliver scattered rain and gusty winds by late morning, with steady showers expected into the afternoon. Temperatures will hover near the low 50s, but the air will feel cooler in the wind. Drivers should expect damp commutes and reduced visibility along portions of I-190 and Route 5, particularly through midday.
By Friday, the front slides east and ushers in a cooler, drier flow. Highs will stay near 51°F with brisk west winds calming late. Patchy frost isn’t likely in the metro area just yet, but outlying suburbs and rural towns south of Buffalo could dip close to freezing early Saturday morning. Gardeners should protect any remaining plants as the growing season winds down.
Saturday will feature classic fall weather — bright sunshine, calm air, and highs in the low 50s. Sunday adds another mild, mostly sunny day, perfect for late-October cleanup or Halloween decorating.
Across the Great Lakes, this pattern signals a broader seasonal shift. Nearly a dozen states from Iowa to Virginia will wake Friday to their coldest air of the season — a widespread freeze event marking the end of the fall growing period. For Buffalo, winter’s grip isn’t far off, but for now, this weekend offers one more crisp, golden stretch before November brings its first lake-effect hints.
Five-Day Outlook for Buffalo, NY:
Thu: 53/40 – Showers likely; breezy and cool.
Fri: 51/38 – Rain early; clearing late.
Sat: 52/39 – Mostly sunny; crisp and calm.
Sun: 52/34 – Bright, cool, and pleasant.
Mon: 51/34 – Partly cloudy; slight chance of rain.
