Winter Storm Warning
Winter Storm Warning: The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued lake effect snow warnings for multiple counties in upstate New York, forecasting heavy snow through the weekend. Residents should brace for challenging travel conditions, especially in regions prone to intense snowfall.
Winter Storm Warning: Snowfall Projections by Region
Buffalo Metro Area (Northern Erie County)
- Expected Snowfall: Between 1 to 2 feet, particularly in South Buffalo and nearby southern suburbs.
- Timing: From 7 a.m. Saturday to 7 p.m. Sunday.
- Impact: Travel will likely be extremely challenging due to heavy snowfall and reduced visibility.
Allegany County
- Expected Snowfall: 6 to 10 inches, especially in the northwest areas.
- Timing: From 7 a.m. Friday to 7 p.m. Monday.
- Impact: Hazardous driving conditions are anticipated, particularly during peak commute hours.
Genesee County
- Expected Snowfall: 6 to 12 inches concentrated in southwestern areas.
- Timing: From 7 a.m. Saturday to 7 p.m. Sunday.
- Impact: Snow-covered roads and limited visibility may disrupt travel.
Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Southern Erie Counties
- Expected Snowfall: 3 to 4 feet in the heaviest snow bands, with western Chautauqua and Southern Erie Counties seeing the most accumulation.
- Timing: From 7 a.m. Friday to 7 p.m. Monday.
- Impact: Travel may become impossible in areas affected by intense snowfall.
Eastern Lake Ontario Region (Oswego, Jefferson, and Lewis Counties)
- Expected Snowfall: 4 to 5 feet, especially near Watertown and the northern Tug Hill plateau.
- Timing: From 7 a.m. Friday to 7 p.m. Monday.
- Impact: Dangerous travel conditions and widespread disruptions are likely.
Travel Advisory During the Winter Storm
The NWS advises extreme caution for those traveling in affected areas.
- Plan Ahead: Check weather forecasts before setting out.
- Drive Safely: Allow extra time for travel, maintain safe distances between vehicles, and use caution on snow-covered roads.
- Avoid Non-Essential Travel: Staying home reduces risks during hazardous conditions.
Rapid weather changes are expected across impacted regions, with the potential for whiteout conditions in areas of intense lake-effect snow.
Understanding Lake Effect Snow
Lake effect snow occurs when cold air masses move over relatively warmer lake waters, picking up moisture and depositing it as snow when the air cools over land. This phenomenon often leads to localized, heavy snowfall in areas downwind of large lakes, such as Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.
Snowfall Maps and Tracking
Detailed snow forecasts, including daily accumulation projections, are available through NWS resources. Probabilities for regions receiving over 4 inches of snow can be toggled on interactive maps, allowing residents to prepare for specific weather conditions in their area.
Preparation and Safety Tips
- Stock Supplies: Ensure you have adequate food, water, and emergency kits at home.
- Stay Updated: Monitor local news or the NWS for updates on warnings and advisories.
- Prepare Vehicles: Equip your car with snow tires, ice scrapers, and emergency tools.
Residents across upstate New York should remain vigilant as this winter storm progresses. Early preparation and awareness of changing weather conditions are critical to ensuring safety during this significant snowfall event.
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