Western New York Wakes Up to 50 Degrees, Mud, and Potholes

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As Western New York experiences a 50-degree warmup, residents are greeted with the annual arrival of potholes, muddy yards, and the need for car washes after a long winter. The melting snow also signals the start of "wet paw season" for dog owners. Despite the challenges, the warmer weather is a welcome sign that spring is on the way.

Why it matters

The transition from winter to spring in Western New York is marked by both the joys of warmer weather and the hassles of dealing with the aftermath of a harsh winter. This story highlights how the community navigates this seasonal shift, from road maintenance to pet care, as they look forward to the brighter days ahead.

The details

With temperatures reaching 50 degrees, residents are seeing grass reappear, snowbanks shrink, and driveways clear. However, the melting snow also brings the return of potholes across New York State, which have been exacerbated by the deep freezes, heavy snow, and constant plowing this winter. For dog owners, the muddy yards mean extra laundry, while car wash locations are expected to be busy as drivers look to remove the buildup of road salt on their vehicles.

• On Saturday, February 28, 2026, temperatures in Western New York are expected to climb near the 50-degree mark.
• Daylight Saving Time is set to begin the weekend of March 8, 2026, signaling the official start of spring.

What’s next

As the weather continues to warm, residents in Western New York can expect to see more potholes emerge and will need to be vigilant while driving, especially on secondary roads and neighborhood streets. Dog owners should also prepare for the return of "wet paw season" and the need for extra laundry. Car wash locations are likely to be busy as drivers look to remove the buildup of road salt on their vehicles.