Buffalo Sees Frigid Temps and Snow Showers Through Weekend

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Buffalo, New York is experiencing a cold snap with highs only reaching the low to mid-30s Fahrenheit on Saturday. Scattered snow showers, especially east of Lake Ontario, are creating poor visibility and light accumulations, leading to hazardous travel conditions along major highways like I-90, I-81, and Route 104. The snow is expected to taper off overnight, but icy roads will remain a concern as temperatures plummet into the 20s.

Why it matters

Late-season winter weather can disrupt travel and daily life in the Buffalo region, which is still recovering from a historic blizzard earlier this year. The cold snap and snow showers come at a time when many residents are eager for warmer spring weather, underscoring the unpredictable nature of the region's climate.

The details

According to the National Weather Service in Buffalo, the cold air mass over western and north-central New York is leading to 32°F highs and persistent lake effect snow showers, especially in areas east of Lake Ontario near Watertown and the Tug Hill region. The snow showers are reducing visibility and causing light accumulations, creating hazardous driving conditions on major highways.

• The snow showers are expected to continue through Saturday evening.
• Temperatures will plummet into the low to mid-20s overnight, allowing any leftover moisture on roads to refreeze and create icy conditions.
• The wintry weather is expected to ease by Sunday afternoon as a warming trend moves in, with highs reaching the upper 40s to low 50s across much of the region.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Drivers should continue to monitor weather and road conditions throughout the weekend and adjust travel plans accordingly.