New York – A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for multiple regions of western and central New York, where heavy lake effect snow could create hazardous travel conditions from this weekend into early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, 7 inches or more of snow are possible in the most persistent lake effect snow bands from Saturday morning through late Sunday night. Wind gusts up to 35 mph could lead to blowing and drifting snow, further reducing visibility.
The watch includes Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and southern Erie counties, where the highest snowfall totals are expected across the Chautauqua Ridge and Boston Hills. Communities potentially impacted include Jamestown, Olean, Orchard Park, and Springville. A previously issued Lake Effect Snow Warning has been cancelled as forecasters shift focus to the longer-duration weekend event.
In Wayne and northern Cayuga counties, a Lake Effect Snow Warning remains in effect until 7 a.m. EST Friday, with up to 2 additional inches possible early this morning. A Winter Storm Watch then takes effect from late Saturday night through Monday morning, with 7 inches or more possible in the most persistent bands, especially across far eastern Wayne and northern Cayuga counties, including Newark and Fair Haven.
Forecasters emphasize that lake effect snow falls in narrow, shifting bands, which can cause rapid changes in road conditions and visibility over short distances. Travel could become difficult, particularly during heavier snow bursts overnight and through the weekend.
Residents and travelers are urged to monitor forecast updates closely, avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy snowfall, and be prepared for localized but potentially significant winter impacts.
