Massive Lake Effect Snow Storm Will Blast WNY

Western New York residents should brace for a massive snowstorm to dump multiple feet of snow on the area. If you didn't know, winter is here. The next two days will bring lots of snow to the Buffalo-area.

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The National Weather Service in Buffalo issued a warning about the lake effect snowstorm that is expected to hit us shortly.

"Locally heavy lake effect snow will bring multiple feet of accumulation east of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario through Friday morning. Strong winds will produce near-whiteout conditions at times. There will be MAJOR impacts to travel and society during this time."

The NWS issued a hazardous weather outlook for most counties in WNY, including Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis, Niagara, Orleans, Monroe, Wayne, Northern Cayuga, Allegany, Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Southern Erie.

Residents should expect heavy lake effect snow and possible gale-force winds. Unnecessary travel should be avoided. Between 7 pm today, Wednesday, December 11, and Friday, December 13, 2024 (up to 7 pm), areas east of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario may see up to three feet of snow and winds of 30 to 45 miles per hour. Whiteout conditions are possible over the next 48 hours.

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New York State Governor Kathy Hochul issued an urgent warning to New Yorkers in the path of the storm,

“As this significant winter storm approaches, I urge all New Yorkers to be alert and take the necessary precautions to stay safe. Our state agencies are monitoring conditions and working to ensure resources are in place ready to respond where they are needed most. Please continue to monitor your local forecast and prioritize your safety and that of your loved ones.”