Buffalo, N.Y. – Patchy fog that affected drivers across the Southern Tier early this morning is expected to clear, giving way to sunshine and dry conditions for the rest of the day. Officials say calm conditions will dominate through tonight before a notable wind shift arrives on Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, a cold front will push southeast across the region on Thursday, switching winds from southwest to north. While the front isn’t forecast to produce widespread rain, the change could usher cooler air into parts of Erie, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus counties by late afternoon.
The Morning Fog and Today’s Outlook
Early morning drivers in rural valleys encountered patchy fog, which reduced visibility in low-lying areas. The fog is expected to lift as the day progresses, leaving mostly sunny skies and light breezes.
- Visibility: Reduced in some rural valleys this morning; drivers should use caution.
- Sky: Sunshine mixing with light breezes for most of Western New York today.
- Travel: Major corridors including Interstate 90 should remain unaffected.
How the Cold Front Will Change Conditions
The incoming cold front is expected to move southeast across the region on Thursday. Meteorologists emphasize the main impact will be a shift in wind direction that can bring a noticeable cooling effect, rather than widespread precipitation.
- Wind shift: From southwest to north late Thursday.
- Temperature effect: Cooler air likely in Erie, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus counties by Thursday afternoon/evening.
- Precipitation: Mainly dry conditions expected, though stronger winds could prompt advisories.
What This Means for Travel and Outdoor Plans
Most outdoor activities and travel plans should go ahead as scheduled. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time in rural valleys this morning while fog persists. By Thursday evening, northerly winds may make temperatures feel cooler, so consider layering if you’ll be outside.
“Conditions will stay mainly dry even with the passing front, but additional advisories could be issued if winds strengthen,” said the National Weather Service in Buffalo.
Key Takeaways
- Today: Fog clears; sunny, dry, light breezes.
- Thursday: Cold front moves southeast; winds shift SW to N.
- Counties to watch: Erie, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus may feel cooler air by Thursday afternoon.
- Travel impact: Interstate 90 and major corridors likely unaffected; allow extra time in fog-prone rural areas this morning.
What do you think about this forecast shift? Will the cooler northerly winds change your plans this week? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
