Janice R. Andrews
A wave of Arctic air is sweeping across the United States this weekend, bringing heavy lake-effect snow to several states, including Pennsylvania, New York, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ohio. Winter weather warnings, including lake-effect snow alerts, are in effect for parts of these regions, some lasting until Monday evening.
As the cold air moves over the relatively warmer waters of the Great Lakes, it’s causing intense snow bands to form. Cities like Cleveland, Ohio, and Buffalo, New York, are expected to see significant snowfall.
New York Braces for Record Snowfall
The hardest-hit areas are expected to be near Watertown, New York, where forecasts predict up to 3 to 5 feet of snow. Another snow band south of Buffalo, around Dunkirk, could also see more than 3 feet of snow. New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for nearly a dozen counties in the western part of the state.
“This storm is likely to create hazardous conditions, cause road closures, and disrupt travel,” said Governor Hochul. Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz also issued a stern warning, urging residents in the southern areas to stay indoors and avoid travel.
Buffalo and Surrounding Areas at Risk
Buffalo is expected to get lighter snow, with only a few inches expected, but areas to the south, including Eden, Evans, and Hamburg, could see 3 to 4 feet of snow. Whiteout conditions are likely, making travel extremely risky.
“We’re talking about snow so intense you won’t be able to see anything while driving,” Poloncarz warned. Parts of Interstate 90 near the Pennsylvania border have already been shut down due to dangerous conditions.
Southern States Under Freeze Warnings
This Arctic blast isn’t just affecting the northern U.S. — over 13 million people in nine southern states are under freeze alerts, with temperatures expected to drop below freezing as far south as Florida’s Panhandle.
Buffalo Bills Game to be Affected
The snowstorm is also disrupting the Buffalo Bills’ Sunday night football game. With up to 30 inches of snow predicted at the stadium before kickoff, fans can expect challenging conditions, along with wind chills in the teens.
Despite the storm, Poloncarz remains confident in the region’s ability to handle the snow. “We know how to manage snow,” he said. “If we take care, we’ll get through this.”
Travelers are urged to stay updated on weather conditions and avoid unnecessary travel in the impacted areas.
