Buffalo, New York – Western New York is heading into a stretch of unsettled holiday travel weather as strong winds, falling temperatures, and the chance of snow showers move across the region. Conditions are already turning hazardous in parts of the Buffalo and Niagara Frontier area, with forecasters urging drivers and residents to prepare for rapidly changing weather through the end of the week.
Strong Winds Create Early Travel Concerns
A Wind Advisory remains in effect across Buffalo, Niagara County, and nearby western counties through early afternoon. Southwest wind gusts of 45 to 50 mph are expected, strong enough to make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.
Major routes including Interstate 90, Route 33, and the Buffalo Skyway may see sudden crosswinds. Loose debris, holiday decorations, and trash bins can become airborne, creating additional hazards. Residents are advised to secure outdoor items and avoid unnecessary travel during peak wind gusts.
Mild Temperatures Mask Hazardous Conditions
Despite the strong winds, temperatures remain relatively mild for late December. Morning readings sit in the upper 30s, rising toward 40 degrees during the afternoon. Skies remain mostly cloudy, and while widespread rain or snow is not expected today, the wind alone poses safety risks.
Falling tree limbs and isolated power outages remain possible as gusts persist through the early afternoon hours.
Tonight Remains Breezy and Colder
Winds gradually ease tonight but do not fully diminish. Overnight lows drop into the upper 20s, allowing colder air to settle in. Roads remain dry for most areas, but lingering wind chills may affect anyone traveling late into the evening.
Brief Lull Arrives Thursday
Thursday offers a short-lived improvement. Winds relax further, and temperatures rebound into the upper 40s to near 50 degrees, well above seasonal averages. Skies remain mostly cloudy, with only a slight chance of isolated showers during the afternoon.
This calmer period may provide the best travel window before conditions deteriorate again.
Colder System Brings Rain and Snow Thursday Night
Weather conditions shift noticeably Thursday night as a stronger system moves through the Great Lakes. Colder air pours in behind the system, bringing rain that transitions to snow, especially inland and during heavier bursts.
Winds strengthen once again, and temperatures fall quickly overnight. By Friday morning, rain changes to snow in many areas, with brief reductions in visibility possible.
While snowfall totals are expected to remain light, the combination of wind, falling temperatures, and sudden snow showers could create challenging travel conditions.
Friday Brings Blustery Winter Feel
Friday stays windy and colder, with highs near the upper 30s. Snow showers taper later in the day, but lingering moisture on roadways may refreeze as temperatures drop Friday night.
This raises the risk of flash freezing, particularly on untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses. Drivers are encouraged to slow down and allow extra travel time.
Weekend Outlook: Cold but Calmer
The weekend brings gradual improvement, though winter remains firmly in place across western New York.
Saturday stays mostly cloudy and breezy, with highs around 39 degrees. Winds ease compared to Friday, but the chill persists. Sunday remains cold and gray, with highs near 34 degrees, reinforcing a wintery feel as the holiday period continues.
Five-Day Buffalo Forecast Snapshot
Today: Wind Advisory, gusts up to 50 mph, high near 40
Thursday: Milder with isolated showers, high near 50
Friday: Rain changing to snow, windy, high near 37
Saturday: Mostly cloudy and breezy, high near 39
Sunday: Cold and cloudy, high near 34
Travel Safety Reminder
Holiday travelers should monitor local forecasts closely, especially late Thursday night into Friday. Sudden weather changes, gusty winds, and quick transitions from rain to snow can catch drivers off guard.
If you are traveling during this period, secure your vehicle, allow extra stopping distance, and remain alert for rapidly changing road conditions.
Share your experiences or travel plans in the comments below.
