Buffalo, N.Y. – Strong winds are expected to whip across Northern Erie and Niagara counties this afternoon, with gusts topping 50 mph between 1 and 6 p.m. Friday. The National Weather Service warns unsecured objects could blow around, while tree limbs and scattered power outages are possible.
According to the National Weather Service office in Buffalo, the advisory covers the Niagara Frontier, where southwest winds will strengthen ahead of a cold front. Most areas will see gusts of 25 to 35 mph, but localized bursts near 50 mph could cause hazardous conditions, especially along open stretches of roadway.
Residents in Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Tonawanda should avoid parking under trees and secure patio furniture or outdoor equipment. Travel on elevated roadways like the Grand Island bridges may be difficult for high-profile vehicles during peak wind times.
Winds are forecast to ease after sunset as cooler air moves into western New York, bringing a more seasonable start to the weekend. Additional weather advisories may be issued as the front continues east.
