(WNY News Now)Buffalo, New YorkA High Wind Watch has been issued by the Buffalo National Weather Service (NWS), and it will be in force from Monday, January 28 at 6:00 AM EST until late Monday evening. This notice warns of wind conditions that could be dangerous in a number of Western New York counties.
Expected Conditions
-
Wind Speeds
: Sustained southwest winds of 30 to 40 mph, with gusts reaching up to 60 mph. -
Affected Areas
: Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Monroe, Genesee, Wyoming, and Chautauqua Counties. -
Timing
: Winds are expected to intensify Monday morning and persist throughout the day before easing late Monday night.
Potential Impacts
The powerful winds may cause:
-
Downed trees and power lines, potentially causing
scattered power outages
. -
Difficult driving conditions, particularly for
high-profile vehicles
. - Flying debris and unsecured outdoor items posing additional risks.
The heaviest gusts are predicted to occur during this time for residents in the Niagara Frontier.
Preparedness Tips
Residents are advised by the NWS to:
- Exercise caution during travel, especially in open areas and on elevated roadways.
-
Secure loose objects
such as patio furniture, garbage cans, and decorations to prevent them from being blown away. -
Monitor weather updates
for the latest forecasts and potential warnings.