(WNY News Now) From Monday afternoon until late Wednesday evening, Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Southern Erie counties are under a Winter Storm Watch, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Buffalo.
From Monday afternoon, January 15, through early Thursday morning, January 16, a major winter storm is expected to produce severe lake-effect snow to parts of Western New York, with potentially long-lasting effects. Snow might blow and drift as a result of the storm’s significant snow accumulation and powerful wind gusts of up to 35 mph.
Clearer skies may alternate with periods of heavy snowfall in the impacted areas, which include Southern Erie, Wyoming, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus counties. Although there is still a high chance of several heavy snow events, the National Weather Service notes that there is significant uncertainty about the precise locations of snow bands and the overall quantities of snowfall.
Effects to Anticipate:
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Travel Conditions:
Poor visibility and snow-covered roads may make travel extremely difficult. -
Rapid Weather Changes:
Localized heavy snow bands may cause swift and significant changes in weather and road conditions. -
Blowing Snow:
Gusty winds may lead to drifting snow and further reduced visibility.
Residents in the impacted areas are advised to keep an eye on local authorities’ updates and get ready for the weather’s quick changes. When driving in locations affected by lake-effect snow, extra caution should be used and travel plans should be modified accordingly.
Short-distance conditions can change dramatically during lake-effect snow occurrences. Road safety and visibility can change suddenly, so it’s important to stay alert and ready.