Buffalo, NY – Western New York is heading into its first real taste of winter this weekend as a powerful cold front sweeps through the region, bringing rain, gusty winds, and possibly snow by Sunday night. According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, the next few days will mark a clear shift from mild autumn weather to a colder, wintry pattern.
The Weather Pattern: Mild Start Before the Drop
After a calm and partly sunny Thursday, temperatures will reach the upper 40s, offering residents a brief break before conditions deteriorate. The National Weather Service predicts that rain and gusty winds will arrive early Friday as a strong front moves across the Great Lakes.
By Friday morning, steady rain and strong south winds—with gusts up to 30 mph near Lake Erie and along the I-90 corridor—will make for a wet and breezy commute. Rainfall could reach half an inch by late evening, creating slick roads and slower travel across Erie, Niagara, and Genesee counties.
“We’re entering a typical early-November transition,” forecasters said. “Expect rapid temperature changes, gusty winds, and possibly some snowflakes by the end of the weekend.”
Friday and Saturday: Rain Followed by a Sharp Cooldown
The rain system will continue into Friday night, with periods of heavier rainfall and wind gusts persisting into early Saturday morning. Behind the front, colder air will begin to move in from Canada, dropping daytime highs to around 50°F.
While Saturday will bring a brief break from heavy rain, the clouds will linger with scattered light showers throughout the day. Forecasters expect a chilly breeze off the lake, making temperatures feel even cooler.
Residents are advised to watch for wet leaves and slick spots on the road, especially in shaded and rural areas.
Sunday Night: First Snowflakes Possible
Another fast-moving system is forecast to arrive Sunday, bringing another round of rain that could mix with wet snow late in the evening.
As temperatures fall to the upper 20s to low 30s overnight, forecasters say Buffalo could see its first snowflakes of the season, particularly in higher elevations and areas south of the city. Though accumulations are expected to be minimal, this will mark the region’s first brush with winter weather.
“Even light snow can impact early travel,” officials warned. “Sunday night into Monday morning could bring the first icy spots of the season.”
Early Next Week: Winter’s Grip Tightens
The start of next week will deliver a colder and blustery pattern. Monday and Veterans Day Tuesday are forecast to stay chilly, with highs barely reaching the upper 30s to low 40s and wind chills in the 20s.
The colder air will serve as a reminder that Buffalo’s winter preparation season has officially begun—from checking furnaces to stocking up on salt and shovels.
Forecasters say the trend of below-average temperatures is expected to continue into mid-November, with additional lake-effect rain and snow showers possible by next weekend.
Five-Day Forecast for Buffalo, NY
- Thursday: 47°/38° – Partly sunny and calm.
- Friday: 58°/43° – Rain and gusty winds, up to 30 mph.
- Saturday: 50°/37° – Mostly cloudy and cooler.
- Sunday: 48°/29° – Rain changing to snow late.
- Monday: 36°/27° – Mostly cloudy, first wintry chill.
- Tuesday (Veterans Day): 40°/28° – Breezy and cold, continued chill.
Conclusion
With cold air moving in and snow on the horizon, Buffalo residents are urged to prepare for early winter conditions. The next few days will bring rapid weather changes, slippery commutes, and a reminder that lake-effect season is just around the corner.
What are your thoughts on Buffalo’s early winter chill? Share your experiences or weather updates in the comments below.
