Alert archive / New York / Winter Storm Watches in 2025

Winter Storm Watch 2, NWS Buffalo, NY

January 18, 20258 counties in New York

NWS Buffalo, NY issued this winter storm watch at Jan 18, 2025, 3:20 AM EST for 8 counties in New York. It took effect at Jan 20, 2025, 1:00 AM EST. It was in force for .

The area

The counties it named.

The facts

Issued
Jan 18, 2025, 3:20 AM EST (08:20 UTC)
In effect from
Jan 20, 2025, 1:00 AM EST
Expired
Jan 19, 2025, 3:43 AM EST
In force
Issued by
NWS Buffalo, NY

Counties Cattaraugus County, NY, Chautauqua County, NY, Erie County, NY, Genesee County, NY, Jefferson County, NY, Lewis County, NY, Oswego County, NY, Wyoming County, NY

The radar

The Buffalo radar (KBUF), 91 km from the middle of the area, began a volume at 08:19 UTC, the scan nearest the moment this went out.

Open the radar archive at this moment

The archived warnings, watches and discussions in force at that minute are drawn over the scan, this one among them.

The nearest sounding before it

Buffalo Intl Airport, NY (KBUF), launched 00:00Z, 8.3 hours before the alert went out and 88 km from the middle of its area. This is the routine balloon launch nearest before it, the air the forecaster had in hand, not a measurement taken for the alert.

Skew-T log-pSkew-T log-p diagram, Buffalo Intl Airport, NY at 00:00Z on 2025-01-18Temperature and dew point through the depth of the atmosphere, with the mixed-layer parcel. CAPE 0 joules per kilogram.LCL10008507005003002001001 km2 km3 km6 km9 km12 km15 km-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°
Temperature in red, dew point in green, the mixed-layer parcel dashed.
HodographHodograph, Buffalo Intl Airport, NY at 00:00Z on 2025-01-18The wind through the lowest 10 kilometers. Zero to 1 km storm-relative helicity 854 square meters per square second.1939587897117136156Sfc1 km3 km6 km9 kmRMLM
The wind turning with height, colored by layer: ground to 1 km, 1 to 3 km, 3 to 6 km, 6 to 10 km.
Mixed-layer CAPE
0 J/kg
Mixed-layer CIN
No buoyant parcel
Mixed-layer LCL
1000 m above ground
0-6 km bulk shear
102 kt
0-1 km storm-relative helicity
854 m²/s²
0-3 km storm-relative helicity
922 m²/s²
Significant tornado parameter
0.0
Supercell composite
0.0

Open this sounding in Storm Lab

The text

As transmitted.

265 
WWUS41 KBUF 180820
WSWBUF

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Buffalo NY
320 AM EST Sat Jan 18 2025

NYZ012-019-020-085-181630-
/O.NEW.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T0600Z-250122T1200Z/
Wyoming-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus-Southern Erie-
Including the cities of Warsaw, Jamestown, Olean, Orchard Park,
and Springville
320 AM EST Sat Jan 18 2025

...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM LATE SUNDAY NIGHT THROUGH 
WEDNESDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow possible. Significant accumulations 
  possible in the most persistent lake snows.

* WHERE...Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Southern Erie 
  Counties.

* WHEN...From late Sunday night through Wednesday morning.

* IMPACTS...The potential exists for a significant long duration 
  lake effect snow event. There is considerable uncertainty in exact 
  band placement and amounts, but multiple periods of heavy snow are 
  possible. Travel could be very difficult with very poor visibility 
  and deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

NYZ010-011-181630-
/O.NEW.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T1200Z-250122T0600Z/
Northern Erie-Genesee-
Including the cities of Buffalo and Batavia
320 AM EST Sat Jan 18 2025

...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM MONDAY MORNING THROUGH LATE 
TUESDAY NIGHT...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow possible. Significant accumulations 
  possible in the most persistent lake snows, especially from the 
  Buffalo Southtowns into southern Genesee county.

* WHERE...Northern Erie and Genesee Counties.

* WHEN...From Monday morning through late Tuesday night.

* IMPACTS...The potential exists for a significant long duration 
  lake effect snow event. There is considerable uncertainty in exact 
  band placement and amounts, but multiple periods of heavy snow are 
  possible. Travel could be very difficult with very poor visibility 
  and deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

NYZ006>008-181630-
/O.NEW.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T1800Z-250122T1200Z/
Oswego-Jefferson-Lewis-
Including the cities of Oswego, Watertown, and Lowville
320 AM EST Sat Jan 18 2025

...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM MONDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH 
WEDNESDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow possible. Significant accumulations 
  possible in the most persistent lake snows.

* WHERE...The Eastern Lake Ontario Region.

* WHEN...From Monday afternoon through Wednesday morning.

* IMPACTS...The potential exists for a significant long duration 
  lake effect snow event. There is considerable uncertainty in exact 
  band placement and amounts, but multiple periods of heavy snow are 
  possible. Travel could be very difficult with very poor visibility 
  and deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

JJR
3 follow-up statements
463 
WWUS41 KBUF 181600
WSWBUF

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Buffalo NY
1100 AM EST Sat Jan 18 2025

NYZ012-019-020-085-190000-
/O.CON.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T0600Z-250122T1200Z/
Wyoming-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus-Southern Erie-
Including the cities of Warsaw, Jamestown, Olean, Orchard Park,
and Springville
1100 AM EST Sat Jan 18 2025

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM LATE SUNDAY NIGHT 
THROUGH WEDNESDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow possible. Significant accumulations 
  possible in the most persistent lake snows.

* WHERE...Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Southern Erie 
  Counties.

* WHEN...From late Sunday night through Wednesday morning.

* IMPACTS...The potential exists for a significant long duration 
  lake effect snow event. There is considerable uncertainty in exact 
  band placement and amounts, but multiple periods of heavy snow are 
  possible. Travel could be very difficult with very poor visibility 
  and deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

NYZ010-011-190000-
/O.CON.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T1200Z-250122T0600Z/
Northern Erie-Genesee-
Including the cities of Buffalo and Batavia
1100 AM EST Sat Jan 18 2025

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM MONDAY MORNING THROUGH 
LATE TUESDAY NIGHT...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow possible. Significant accumulations 
  possible in the most persistent lake snows, especially from the 
  Buffalo Southtowns into southern Genesee county.

* WHERE...Northern Erie and Genesee Counties.

* WHEN...From Monday morning through late Tuesday night.

* IMPACTS...The potential exists for a significant long duration 
  lake effect snow event. There is considerable uncertainty in exact 
  band placement and amounts, but multiple periods of heavy snow are 
  possible. Travel could be very difficult with very poor visibility 
  and deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

NYZ006>008-190000-
/O.CON.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T1800Z-250122T1200Z/
Oswego-Jefferson-Lewis-
Including the cities of Oswego, Watertown, and Lowville
1100 AM EST Sat Jan 18 2025

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM MONDAY AFTERNOON 
THROUGH WEDNESDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow possible. Significant accumulations 
  possible in the most persistent lake snows.

* WHERE...The Eastern Lake Ontario Region.

* WHEN...From Monday afternoon through Wednesday morning.

* IMPACTS...The potential exists for a significant long duration 
  lake effect snow event. There is considerable uncertainty in exact 
  band placement and amounts, but multiple periods of heavy snow are 
  possible. Travel could be very difficult with very poor visibility 
  and deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

TMA
316 
WWUS41 KBUF 182223
WSWBUF

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Buffalo NY
523 PM EST Sat Jan 18 2025

NYZ012-019-020-085-190900-
/O.CON.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T0600Z-250122T1200Z/
Wyoming-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus-Southern Erie-
Including the cities of Warsaw, Jamestown, Olean, Orchard Park,
and Springville
523 PM EST Sat Jan 18 2025

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM LATE SUNDAY NIGHT 
THROUGH WEDNESDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow possible. Significant accumulations 
  possible in the most persistent lake snows.

* WHERE...Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Southern Erie 
  Counties.

* WHEN...From late Sunday night through Wednesday morning.

* IMPACTS...The potential exists for a significant long duration 
  lake effect snow event. There is considerable uncertainty in exact 
  band placement and amounts, but multiple periods of heavy snow are 
  possible. Travel could be very difficult with very poor visibility 
  and deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

NYZ010-011-190900-
/O.CON.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T1200Z-250122T0600Z/
Northern Erie-Genesee-
Including the cities of Buffalo and Batavia
523 PM EST Sat Jan 18 2025

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM MONDAY MORNING THROUGH 
LATE TUESDAY NIGHT...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow possible. Significant accumulations 
  possible in the most persistent lake snows, especially from the 
  Buffalo Southtowns into southern Genesee county.

* WHERE...Northern Erie and Genesee Counties.

* WHEN...From Monday morning through late Tuesday night.

* IMPACTS...The potential exists for a significant long duration 
  lake effect snow event. There is considerable uncertainty in exact 
  band placement and amounts, but multiple periods of heavy snow are 
  possible. Travel could be very difficult with very poor visibility 
  and deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

NYZ006>008-190900-
/O.CON.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T1800Z-250122T1200Z/
Oswego-Jefferson-Lewis-
Including the cities of Oswego, Watertown, and Lowville
523 PM EST Sat Jan 18 2025

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM MONDAY AFTERNOON 
THROUGH WEDNESDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow possible. Significant accumulations 
  possible in the most persistent lake snows.

* WHERE...The Eastern Lake Ontario Region.

* WHEN...From Monday afternoon through Wednesday morning.

* IMPACTS...The potential exists for a significant long duration 
  lake effect snow event. There is considerable uncertainty in exact 
  band placement and amounts, but multiple periods of heavy snow are 
  possible. Travel could be very difficult with very poor visibility 
  and deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

Thomas
720 
WWUS41 KBUF 190843
WSWBUF

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Buffalo NY
343 AM EST Sun Jan 19 2025

NYZ019-191645-
/O.UPG.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T0600Z-250122T1200Z/
/O.NEW.KBUF.LE.W.0002.250120T0000Z-250122T1500Z/
Chautauqua-
Including the cities of Jamestown
343 AM EST Sun Jan 19 2025

...LAKE EFFECT SNOW WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM THIS EVENING TO 10 
AM EST WEDNESDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow expected. Total snow accumulations 
  10 to 20 inches in the most persistent lake snows, primarily 
  across northern portions of the county. Winds gusting as high as 
  35 mph will also produce some blowing and drifting snow.

* WHERE...Chautauqua County.

* WHEN...From 7 PM this evening to 10 AM EST Wednesday. The heaviest 
  and most impactful snowfall is expected between Monday and Tuesday 
  evening.

* IMPACTS...Travel will be very difficult with very poor visibility 
  and deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

NYZ012-020-085-191645-
/O.UPG.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T0600Z-250122T1200Z/
/O.NEW.KBUF.LE.W.0002.250120T0600Z-250122T1500Z/
Wyoming-Cattaraugus-Southern Erie-
Including the cities of Warsaw, Olean, Orchard Park, and
Springville
343 AM EST Sun Jan 19 2025

...LAKE EFFECT SNOW WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM MONDAY TO 10 AM EST 
WEDNESDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow expected. Total snow accumulations 
  10 to 20 inches in the most persistent lake snows, mainly from 
  Northern Cattaraugus and southern Erie counties into western 
  Wyoming county. The heaviest and most impactful snowfall is 
  expected between Monday and Tuesday evening.

* WHERE...Wyoming, Cattaraugus, and Southern Erie Counties.

* WHEN...From 1 AM Monday to 10 AM EST Wednesday.

* IMPACTS...Travel will be very difficult very poor visibility and 
  deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

NYZ010-011-191645-
/O.UPG.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T1200Z-250122T0600Z/
/O.NEW.KBUF.LE.W.0002.250120T1500Z-250122T0900Z/
Northern Erie-Genesee-
Including the cities of Buffalo and Batavia
343 AM EST Sun Jan 19 2025

...LAKE EFFECT SNOW WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM MONDAY TO 4 AM EST 
WEDNESDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow expected. Total snow accumulations 8 
  to 16 inches in the most persistent lake snows, mainly from South 
  Buffalo and the Buffalo Southtowns eastward across southern 
  Genesee county.

* WHERE...Northern Erie and Genesee Counties, mainly from South 
  Buffalo and the Buffalo Southtowns eastward across southern 
  Genesee county.

* WHEN...From 10 AM Monday to 4 AM EST Wednesday. The heaviest and 
  most impactful snowfall is expected between late Monday afternoon, 
  Monday night, and Tuesday.

* IMPACTS...Travel will be very difficult with very poor visibility 
  and deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

NYZ006-191645-
/O.UPG.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T1800Z-250122T1200Z/
/O.NEW.KBUF.LE.W.0002.250120T1800Z-250122T1800Z/
Oswego-
Including the cities of Oswego
343 AM EST Sun Jan 19 2025

...LAKE EFFECT SNOW WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM MONDAY TO 1 PM EST 
WEDNESDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow expected. Total snow accumulations 2 
  to 3 feet in the most persistent lake snows across far northern 
  portions of the county, with lesser amounts further south.

* WHERE...Oswego County.

* WHEN...From 1 PM Monday to 1 PM EST Wednesday.  The heaviest and 
  most impactful snowfall is expected between Monday night and 
  Tuesday night.

* IMPACTS...Travel will be very difficult with very poor visibility 
  and deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

NYZ007-008-191645-
/O.UPG.KBUF.WS.A.0002.250120T1800Z-250122T1200Z/
/O.NEW.KBUF.LE.W.0002.250120T1800Z-250122T1200Z/
Jefferson-Lewis-
Including the cities of Watertown and Lowville
343 AM EST Sun Jan 19 2025

...LAKE EFFECT SNOW WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM MONDAY TO 7 AM EST 
WEDNESDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy lake effect snow expected. Total snow accumulations 2 
  to 3 feet in the most persistent lake snows across the Tug Hill 
  Region, with lesser amounts further north and east.

* WHERE...Jefferson and Lewis Counties. The heaviest and most 
  impactful snowfall is expected between Monday night and Tuesday 
  night.

* WHEN...From 1 PM Monday to 7 AM EST Wednesday. 

* IMPACTS...Travel will be very difficult with very poor visibility 
  and deep snow cover on roads.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally 
heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just 
a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, 
visibility, and road conditions.

&&

$$

NYZ001>003-191645-
/O.NEW.KBUF.WW.Y.0006.250120T0300Z-250120T2100Z/
Niagara-Orleans-Monroe-
Including the cities of Niagara Falls, Medina, and Rochester
343 AM EST Sun Jan 19 2025

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 10 PM THIS EVENING TO 4 PM 
EST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Lake effect snow expected. Total snow accumulations 4 to 8 
  inches in the most persistent lake snows.

* WHERE...Niagara, Orleans, and Monroe Counties.

* WHEN...From 10 PM this evening to 4 PM EST Monday.

* IMPACTS...Travel will be difficult with slippery, snow covered 
  roadways. The hazardous conditions will impact the Monday morning 
  commute.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Lake effect snow will fall in relatively narrow bands. If traveling, 
be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions and visibilities.

Submit snow reports through our website or social media.

&&

$$

NYZ004-005-191645-
/O.NEW.KBUF.WW.Y.0006.250120T0600Z-250121T0000Z/
Wayne-Northern Cayuga-
Including the cities of Newark and Fair Haven
343 AM EST Sun Jan 19 2025

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 7 PM EST MONDAY...

* WHAT...Lake effect snow expected. Total snow accumulations 3 to 6 
  inches in the most persistent lake snows.

* WHERE...Wayne and Northern Cayuga Counties.

* WHEN...From 1 AM to 7 PM EST Monday.

* IMPACTS...Plan on snow covered roads and slippery road conditions. 
  The hazardous conditions will impact the Monday morning and 
  evening commutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Lake effect snow will fall in relatively narrow bands. If traveling, 
be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions and visibilities.

Submit snow reports through our website or social media.

&&

$$

JJR

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before this winter storm watch went out, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Buffalo, NY wrote its last area forecast discussion before this winter storm watch went out at Jan 18, 12:49 AM EST, 2 hours 31 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Jan 18, 12:49 AM EST, 2 hours 31 minutes before
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Buffalo NY
1249 AM EST Sat Jan 18 2025

.SYNOPSIS...
Our spell of uneventful weather will persist through tonight...then
a strong arctic cold front over the Upper Great Lakes will plow
through the region on Saturday. The mixed rain and snow that will
accompany the front will change to just snow in the deepening cold
air in its wake...then out sites will be set on plummeting
temperatures Saturday night through the first half of the new work
week. The coldest air in more than five years will build over the
region Monday into Wednesday...and this will result in dangerously
low apparent temperatures regionwide...along with accumulating lake
snows east and northeast of the lakes.

&&

.NEAR TERM /THROUGH TODAY/...
IR satellite imagery shows a break in the clouds across western NY
late tonight. This will move east while mid to high level clouds
fill into this break further east. Downsloping is contributing to a
mild night across lower elevations. Gusty conditions will continue
with gusts up to 40 mph along the Lake Erie shoreline into southern
Erie county overnight.

Expect a brief break in active weather tonight...as high pressure
will continue to drift off the East coast. Meanwhile, a digging
upper level trough across central North America will push an arctic
cold front across the Upper Great Lakes. With the area sandwiched
between the front and the exiting aforementioned surface ridge,
deep/strengthening southerly flow will support a warm advection
regime, thus resulting in a non-diurnal temperature curve tonight.
Lows tonight will occur early this evening (ranging from the upper
20s to low 30s across the high terrain and the mid to upper 30s
elsewhere) and warm up into the mid to upper 30s areawide by
daybreak. Otherwise outside of the warming temperatures, expect dry
weather to prevail.

Saturday, the rapidly intensifying upper level trough will continue
to dig southeastward across the Great lakes, supporting its
attendant surface low over Quebec to gradually pivot its trailing
arctic cold front eastward across the lower Great Lakes late Saturday
morning and Saturday afternoon. Sufficiently deep moisture and lift
along the cold front and front flank of the parent upper level
trough will lead to fairly widespread precipitation spreading from
west to east throughout the day Saturday. This being said, with the
mild air mass in place onset of the front, precipitation type will
be a rain-snow mix. A changeover to all snow will happen fairly
quick with the arrival of the cold air in addition to wet-bulbing
effects. Depending on the timing of the changeover, snowfall amounts
will vary, with higher amounts likely with a quicker changeover,
though in general, snowfall amounts will generally be higher across
the higher elevations where thermal profiles will trend cooler and
snow remaining the dominant precipitation type. With this forecast
iteration, snowfall amounts range between 1-3" across the higher
terrain east of Lake Erie and 2-4" across the southern slopes of the
Tug Hill Plateau. Otherwise, a general inch is likely elsewhere,
with the northern Finger Lakes remaining the warmest and therefore
will see little to no snow accumulations.

&&

.SHORT TERM /TONIGHT THROUGH MONDAY NIGHT/...
...BECOMING BITTERLY COLD WITH LAKE EFFECT SNOW EARLY NEXT WEEK...

Residual northwest flow lake effect/upslope snows will linger
through much of Saturday night, though with lessening intensity as
synoptic moisture will be scouring out within the post-frontal
airmass. Additional minor accumulations under an inch are likely,
though could more in the way of 1-2" up on the Tug Hill/Western
Dacks. Deep CAA will lead to a much colder night with lows falling
back into the teens.

Deep troughing will engulf across much of the CONUS heading into
Sunday as cross-polar flow allows a frigid arctic airmass to dig
southward across the Upper Midwest. To the southeast, the cold front
now moving into the Carolinas will be interacting with a warm
maritime airmass off the Southeast coast, leading to a strengthening
area of low pressure. The sfc low is then expected to ride northeast
off the Mid-Atlantic coast by Sunday evening, arriving in the
Canadian Maritimes by Monday morning. A general northern trend noted
among the latest guidance packages in the system's track, with an
increase in overall QPF as well, though the Canadian model continues
to be the outlier as it advertises a much further westward track.
Given the notably higher 75th-25th percentile spread in the GEPS and
that the further eastward ENS/GEFS are in much better agreement with
one another, will continue to lean on the latter. This would favor
the greatest direct impacts from this system remaining well south
and east of our area, though it is looking increasingly likely that
some lighter synoptic snow will manage to spread into the region on
Sunday. Daytime snowfall amounts should be minor, generally up to an
inch in most areas, though enhancement from the lakes could lead to
a few swaths of 1-2" totals. Otherwise...Highs on Sunday will be
cold, ranging from the teens to low 20s.

As the system continues to move northeast towards the Canadian
Maritimes Sunday night, it will begin to wrap the arctic air to our
west into the Great Lakes. Though, it will already be plenty cold
enough aloft heading into the night to support additional lake
effect and upslope snows as the flow backs from north to
northwesterly overnight. Some of the hi-res guidance (CMCreg/NAM)
advertise a mesolow moving through overnight, which could also bring
additional snow showers outside the main lake effect areas. Winds
will become more well-aligned down the long axis of both lakes as
the frigid air pours into the region along an arctic front during
the day Monday. The west-northwesterly flow will initially direct
steadier lake snows into the Southern Tier and southeast of Lake
Ontario Monday morning. As winds turn more southwesterly (260/250)
across the lakes, off Lake Erie this should place the band between
northern Chautauqua/Cattaraugus and the Buffalo Southtowns, while
off Lake Ontario the favored placement looks to be in the vicinity
of the Oswego/Jefferson county line. At this juncture, it looks as
though the bands will persist in these general regions through
Monday night, though it should be stated here that there is still
uncertainty in exact band placement and intensity. Model soundings
indicate marginal amounts of moisture through the DGZ over Lake Erie
in particular, which could prove to be a limiting factor, as well as
the potential for the band to edge a little further north into
Northern Erie county.

With the aforementioned uncertainties, estimating snowfall amounts
within these bands are still a bit difficult to pin down at this
range. The setup over Lake Ontario looks better in regards to the
potential for more significant snowfall amounts and rates,
especially later Monday and Monday night. Depending on how
stationary the band is, could see totals in the vicinity of the Tug
Hill Plateau quickly approach or even exceed a foot by daybreak
Tuesday. Totals are currently much lower in comparison off Erie,
though this will ultimately hinge on band residence time and if
enough moisture will be available to support higher rates.

In regards to temperatures...850H temps around -20C to start the day
Monday are expected to crater down to around -25C by Monday night.
With a stiffening pressure gradient between high pressure nosing in
from the Ohio Valley and the low over the Canadian Maritimes, wind
chill values are expected to be sub-zero east of Lake Ontario by
Sunday evening, then everywhere else by early Monday morning.
Apparent temps are expected to remain below zero through Monday
night, and be WELL into the negative teens by Tuesday morning.

&&

.LONG TERM /TUESDAY THROUGH FRIDAY/...
...FRIGID COLD AND BOUTS OF LAKE EFFECT SNOW CONTINUE THROUGH EARLY
NEXT WEEK...

An arctic airmass will remain over the forecast area Tuesday through
at least Wednesday night as deep longwave troughing remains
entrenched across much of the Lower 48. Air temperatures to start
this period will be in the low single digits across the lower
terrain and sub-zero elsewhere, with wind chills well into the
negative teens and even negative 20s. 850H temps around -25C will
greatly inhibit how warm it will get at the sfc, with highs only in
the single digits to low teens Tuesday and Wednesday, though
Wednesday will likely be a few degrees "warmer" in comparison.
Tuesday night looks to be the coldest period during this arctic air
outbreak, with air temps expected to be below zero just about
everywhere and wind chills from -15F to -25F overnight.

In addition to frigid wind chills, lake effect snows are expected to
continue through the mid-week timeframe. Higher uncertainty in this
timeframe on exact placement of the bands and therefore potential
snowfall amounts, though west-southwesterly flow should direct the
heavier snows east to northeast of both lakes into Tuesday night.
Long range guidance indicates that these snows could impact the same
areas as those that received snow later Monday and Monday night with
the continued potential for more impactful accumulations and
snowfall rates, especially off Lake Ontario on or near the Tug Hill.

A sfc-850H ridge will then build over the lakes later Wednesday into
Thursday. This will not only weaken and shift the overall lake
response further north but also lead to a warming trend. That is to
say, temperatures are expected to remain below normal, though highs
Thursday and Friday are expected to range in the 20s as opposed to
single digits.

&&

.AVIATION /06Z SATURDAY THROUGH WEDNESDAY/...
A southerly low level jet and VFR conditions will continue across
western and north central NY overnight. Wind gusts around 25 kts are
possible at the TAF sites with higher gusts along the Lake Erie
shoreline. Low level wind shear will be present for those places not
mixing overnight.

A strong cold front will move across the region Saturday.
Precipitation will move into western NY Saturday morning and spread
east across the forecast area. Marginal surface temperatures will
result in a rain and snow mix at lower elevations and snow across
higher elevations including KJHW. Flight conditions will deteriorate
and widespread MVFR/IFR conditions are expected at the TAF sites.
Model guidance is showing IFR conditions at KART Saturday afternoon.
Leaned less aggressive in pre-frontal conditions as downsloping will
likely keep them at MVFR.

Any mix of rain and snow will transition to snow Saturday afternoon
into the evening. Widespread snow will move east with lingering lake
effect and upslope snow showers Saturday night. MVFR/IFR conditions
will continue across the TAF sites.

Outlook...

Sunday...VFR/MVFR with a chance of snow showers.
Monday through Wednesday...Local LIFR in lake effect snow east
of the lakes, mainly VFR elsewhere.

&&

.MARINE...
Occasional moderate southwest to west winds will continue to bring
Small Craft Advisory conditions on Lake Erie much of the time
through Saturday night. A brief period of marginally strong enough
westerlies will also produce some lower-end advisory-level
conditions along the southeastern shore of Lake Ontario today, with
strengthening southerly flow then bringing a period of advisory-
worthy conditions to far eastern Lake Ontario tonight and Saturday.

&&

.BUF WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
NY...None.
MARINE...Small Craft Advisory until 10 PM EST this evening for LEZ040-
         041.
         Small Craft Advisory until 4 PM EST this afternoon
         for LOZ045.

&&

SYNOPSIS...RSH
NEAR TERM...EAJ/HSK
SHORT TERM...PP
LONG TERM...PP
AVIATION...HSK
MARINE...EAJ/JJR
Hazardous weather outlook, Jan 17, 10:37 PM EST, 4 hours 43 minutes before
Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Buffalo NY
1037 PM EST Fri Jan 17 2025

NYZ001>008-010>014-019>021-085-190345-
Niagara-Orleans-Monroe-Wayne-Northern Cayuga-Oswego-Jefferson-Lewis-
Northern Erie-Genesee-Wyoming-Livingston-Ontario-Chautauqua-
Cattaraugus-Allegany-Southern Erie-
1037 PM EST Fri Jan 17 2025

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for western and north central New
York.

.DAY ONE...Tonight.

Hazardous weather is not expected at this time.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Saturday through Thursday.

An arctic airmass will cross our region from Sunday night through
the middle of next week. This may result in bitterly cold apparent
temperatures of 10 to 20 below zero for lower elevations, and 20 to
30 below zero for higher terrain at times.

Accumulating lake effect snow is also likely east of Lake Erie and
Lake Ontario from Sunday night or Monday through the middle of next
week. There remains considerable uncertainty with respect to band
placement, intensity, and amounts.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotter activation is not expected at this time.

This product, along with other watches, warnings, advisories, and
statements issued by the National Weather Service office in Buffalo
can be found on the internet at http://www.weather.gov/buf

LEZ020-040-041-LOZ030-042>045-062>065-SLZ022-024-190345-
Upper Niagara River and Buffalo Harbor-
Lake Erie nearshore waters from Ripley to Dunkirk-
Lake Erie nearshore waters from Dunkirk to Buffalo-
Lower Niagara River-
Lake Ontario nearshore waters from the Niagara River to Hamlin Beach-
Lake Ontario nearshore waters from Hamlin Beach to Sodus Bay-
Lake Ontario nearshore waters from Sodus Bay to Mexico Bay-
Lake Ontario nearshore waters from Mexico Bay to the Saint Lawrence
River-
Lake Ontario open waters from the Niagara River to Hamlin Beach-
Lake Ontario open waters from Hamlin Beach to Sodus Bay-
Lake Ontario open waters from Sodus Bay to Mexico Bay-
Lake Ontario open waters from Mexico Bay to the Saint Lawrence River-
Saint Lawrence River from Cape Vincent to Ogdensburg-
Saint Lawrence River from Ogdensburg to Saint Regis-
1037 PM EST Fri Jan 17 2025

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for the New York waters of Lake
Erie, Lake Ontario, and the Saint Lawrence River.

.DAY ONE...Tonight.

No hazardous weather is expected at this time.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Saturday through Thursday.

No hazardous weather is expected at this time.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotter activation is not expected at this time.

This product, along with other watches, warnings, advisories, and
statements issued by the National Weather Service office in Buffalo
can be found on the internet at http://www.weather.gov/buf

Nearby

Winter Storm Watches in New York, 2025Every winter storm watch in 2025

Sources

The product and its follow-ups from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service and Storm Prediction Center text; the sounding from the Mesonet's radiosonde archive; radar from the NEXRAD Level II archive.