Travel
Lake effect snow warning issued in upstate New York. Snowfall projections continue to rise
Winter storm warnings impacts Thanksgiving travel for many in the US
The first snow of the season fell in many states. The weekend before Thanksgiving could make for some rough travel in parts of the U.S.
A significant lake effect snow event is expected to impact Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, southern Erie, Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis and Alleghany counties from 7 a.m. Friday through 7 p.m. Monday.
The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a lake effect storm warning for those areas in New York. The warning is in effect from Friday morning through Monday morning.
How much snow is expected in upstate NY?
- Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, southern Erie: 2 to 3 feet of snow in areas experiencing the most persistent lake effect bands. Snowfall rates will typically range from one to two inches per hour, with even higher rates possible at times.
- Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis: 3 to 4 feet of snow. The greatest snow accumulations are expected across the northern Tug Hill region to areas just south and east of Watertown.
- Allegany: 8 to 14 inches of snow. The greatest accumulations will focus on the northwest portion of the county.
Travel to be impacted by NY storm
The storm is likely to create hazardous travel conditions, making some roads nearly impassable. Drivers should expect significant disruptions, especially during Friday commutes.
Buffalo Bills weather for Sunday game vs. 49ers
The Weather Service forecast for Orchard Park calls for below-freezing temperatures in the upper 20s and a persistent 43% chance of snow through Sunday evening. Winds will be out of the west, but a mild 8 mph.
The AccuWeather forecast anticipates cold evening temperatures in the upper 20s with snow flurries, but little accumulation. The forecast does call for gusts in excess of 20 mph, which would have more of an effect on the game than the predicted gametime precipitation.
Winter storm warnings and watches around New York and the U.S.
Other areas in New York are under winter storm watches, advisories or warnings. See interactive map to stay updated on all areas impacted by weather alerts in New York.
Snow forecast map: See snowfall projections by day
The map below shows the probability that an area could receive more than 4 inches of snow in the U.S. See New York projections. Use the slider at the top left to toggle by day.