Buffalo, NY – Residents across the Buffalo metropolitan area are under an active Winter Weather Advisory Monday night as lake-effect snow continues to impact the region, creating slick roads and reduced visibility through early Tuesday morning.
The National Weather Service in Buffalo says the advisory remains in effect until 7 a.m. EST Tuesday, with up to 2 inches of additional snowfall possible in areas where lake-effect snow bands persist the longest. The advisory includes Northern and Southern Erie County, Genesee County, and Wyoming County, covering Buffalo, Orchard Park, Batavia, Warsaw, and Springville.
What Forecasters Are Expecting Overnight
Meteorologists report that lake-effect snow bands will continue to shift across western New York overnight, producing periods of steady snowfall in localized areas. The highest snowfall totals are expected across southern Erie County, especially ridge areas near Orchard Park, along with parts of western Wyoming County.
Meanwhile, Northern Erie County and western portions of Genesee County could also experience intermittent snow showers capable of briefly reducing visibility and covering road surfaces.
Because lake-effect snow is highly localized, snowfall amounts may vary significantly even between nearby neighborhoods.
Travel Conditions Remain the Primary Concern
The biggest concern associated with this advisory is overnight and early-morning travel. Roadways are expected to become snow-covered and slick, particularly on untreated roads, bridges, overpasses, and higher elevations.
Drivers may encounter sudden changes in visibility as narrow snow bands move through the area. Conditions can deteriorate rapidly, with clear roads quickly giving way to near-whiteout situations in heavier bursts of snow.
Officials urge anyone traveling overnight or during the Tuesday morning commute to use extra caution.
Advisory Timing and Impact on the Morning Commute
The Winter Weather Advisory was issued at 9:20 p.m. Monday and is scheduled to remain in place through the early hours of Tuesday. Snowfall during the overnight period may lead to slower commute times, especially in areas south of Buffalo and along elevated roadways.
Even modest snowfall totals can create hazardous conditions when combined with colder pavement temperatures and limited overnight road treatment.
Why Lake-Effect Snow Can Be Dangerous
Lake-effect snow events are particularly challenging because of how quickly conditions can change. These snow bands can be narrow and intense, producing sharp contrasts over short distances.
Drivers may leave dry pavement and suddenly encounter snow-covered roads with minimal warning. This unpredictability increases the risk of spinouts and collisions, especially for motorists unfamiliar with winter driving.
Safety Tips for Drivers and Residents
Authorities recommend taking the following precautions during the advisory period:
- Reduce speed and increase following distance
- Allow extra travel time, especially before sunrise
- Use headlights during snowfall to improve visibility
- Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets and a flashlight
- Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns on slick roads
Pedestrians should also watch for icy sidewalks and untreated walkways during the early morning hours.
How Residents Can Help Weather Officials
The National Weather Service encourages residents to submit snowfall reports through its website or social media channels. These reports help meteorologists track localized snow bands and improve real-time forecasting accuracy across western New York.
What Happens Next
Snow showers are expected to gradually taper off Tuesday morning as lake-effect activity weakens. However, lingering slick spots may remain on secondary roads even after snowfall diminishes.
Residents are advised to stay weather-aware and monitor local updates overnight.
If you experienced hazardous road conditions or noticeable snowfall in your area, share your experiences in the comments below.
