Buffalo, New York – Western New York is entering a rapidly changing and potentially dangerous weather pattern today, as strong winds, falling temperatures, and snow squalls replace morning rain. Forecasters warn that travel conditions will deteriorate quickly, especially by afternoon and evening, with multiple weather alerts in effect across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, a powerful cold front is sweeping through the area, bringing damaging wind gusts, lakeshore flooding concerns, and a sharp transition from rain to snow. Residents should prepare for hazardous roads, reduced visibility, and possible power disruptions through Monday night.
Multiple Weather Alerts in Effect
Weather officials have issued several alerts covering Buffalo and surrounding counties:
- High Wind Warning with gusts reaching 55 to 60 mph
- Winter Weather Advisory for snow squalls and blowing snow
- Lakeshore Flood Warning along Lake Erie and the Niagara River
- Flood Watch due to heavy rain combined with rising water levels
Southwest winds strengthen rapidly through late morning, especially in open and elevated areas. As colder air surges in, temperatures drop sharply from the 50s early today to the 20s by evening, creating a volatile setup for winter hazards.
Rapid Shift From Rain to Snow
Rain this morning gives way to snow by mid to late afternoon as temperatures fall. Snow showers may become briefly heavy, producing snow squalls capable of reducing visibility to near zero in minutes.
The greatest impact is expected along lake-effect prone corridors south of Buffalo, where bursts of snow and blowing snow may develop with little warning.
Hazardous Travel Expected This Afternoon and Evening
Road conditions are expected to worsen quickly after midday:
- Blowing snow may reduce visibility on I-90, Route 33, and other major roadways
- High-profile vehicles could struggle in strong crosswinds, particularly near Lake Erie
- Wet roads may flash freeze after sunset as temperatures plunge
Drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid unnecessary travel during peak wind and snow periods.
Lakeshore Flooding and Strong Waves
Powerful southwest winds will push water toward the Buffalo waterfront and along the Niagara River. This raises the risk of minor to localized lakeshore flooding, especially in low-lying and exposed shoreline areas.
Residents near the water should monitor conditions closely and avoid shoreline walkways and piers as waves and water levels rise.
Snow and Cold Persist Into Tuesday
Snow showers continue into tonight, with localized accumulations of 2 to 4 inches possible where heavier bursts occur. Gusty winds will persist overnight, keeping wind chills in the teens.
Tuesday remains cold and unsettled, with lingering snow showers and below-normal temperatures. While winds gradually ease, winter conditions remain firmly in place.
Looking Ahead Toward New Year’s
Conditions improve slowly by midweek, though temperatures stay well below average heading into the end of the year.
- New Year’s Day 2026: Cold with scattered snow showers possible
- Highs: Near the low 20s
- Travel impacts: Possible brief visibility reductions during snow showers
Anyone traveling for New Year’s plans should allow extra time and remain alert for sudden changes in road conditions.
Five-Day Forecast: Buffalo, NY
Monday: Rain changing to snow, very windy, temperatures falling
Tuesday: Snow showers, breezy, high near 27°F
Wednesday: Snow showers, high near 28°F
Thursday (New Year’s Day): Chance of snow showers, high near 21°F
Friday: Mostly cloudy, slight snow chance, high near 24°F
Conclusion
Buffalo is facing a high-impact weather stretch today as powerful winds, snow squalls, and lakeshore flooding risks combine into Monday night. Securing loose outdoor items, limiting travel, and staying weather-aware will be critical as conditions change rapidly across western New York.
Are you seeing blowing snow, strong winds, or flooding near the lakeshore today? Share your experiences in the comments below.
