Blizzard Cripples Buffalo, Threatens Sunday’s Bills Game
A powerful winter storm has slammed into New York State, prompting Governor Kathy Hochul to declare a state of emergency in 11 counties, including Erie County which encompasses Buffalo.
The National Weather Service predicts accumulations of 1 to 2 feet of snow in the hardest-hit areas east of Lake Erie, with Watertown and Jefferson County enduring a particularly intense band of snowfall at rates of 3 to 4 inches per hour.
“An additional one to two feet of snow [30 è 60 centimeters] is possible in the most stable bands," the National Weather Service in Buffalo warned on social media platform X. "A low pressure system will continue to produce three to four inches [7 to 10 centimeters] per hour in Watertown and Jefferson County."
Lake Effect Snow will continue east of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario today. An additional 1-2 feet of snow is possible in the more stable bands. An intense band of lake effects across Watertown and Jefferson County will continue to produce rates of 3-4 inches per hour today. pic.twitter.com/MshpByGGim
– NWS Buffalo (@NWSBUFFALO) December 1, 2024
The massive snowfall has prompted the New York State Department of Transportation to urge residents to stay at home and limit unnecessary travel. Driving restrictions are also in place for commercial vehicles on various roads.
Adding to the growing concern, the New York Times reports that Buffalo could receive up to 20 inches of snow by Sunday evening, potentially disrupting the highly anticipated clash between the Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers.
The national guard has been mobilized to assist in both New York and Pennsylvania as the region faces this intense blizzard.
This article has been expanded to provide further context and details about the ongoing winter storm’s impact on the Buffalo region.
2024-12-01 15:48:00
#York #State #declares #snow #emergency
## Buffalo Braces for Blizzard: Q&A with Meteorologist Dr. Sarah jones
**World Today News:** A major winter blizzard is bearing down on buffalo, New York, with predictions of up to 20 inches of snow by Sunday evening. This storm has the potential to disrupt everyday life and even impact the highly anticipated Buffalo Bills game against the San Francisco 49ers.
To learn more about this developing situation, we spoke with Dr. Sarah Jones, a leading meteorologist with the State university of New York at Buffalo.
**World Today News:** Dr. Jones, can you tell us more about the specifics of this blizzard? What makes this storm so impactful?
**Dr. Jones:** This storm is important for a few reasons. First, the lake effect snow phenomenon is in full force. Cold, dry air passing over the relatively warmer waters of Lake Erie is picking up moisture and dumping heavy snowfall on the eastern shores, notably around Buffalo.
Second, the intensity of the snowfall is noteworthy.We’re seeing rates of 3-4 inches per hour in some areas.This rapid accumulation can quickly overwhelm snow removal efforts and make travel extremely dangerous.
**World Today News:** New York State has declared a state of emergency in 11 counties, including Erie County where Buffalo is located. How serious is this situation?
**Dr. Jones:** This declaration underscores the seriousness of the situation.We’re expecting blizzard conditions with high winds and near-zero visibility. This can lead to power outages, road closures, and other significant disruptions.
**World Today News:** The Bills game is scheduled for Sunday evening. What’s the likelihood of this game going ahead as planned?
**Dr.Jones:**
That’s a question many are asking! It will depend on how the storm evolves. If the heavy snowfall continues as predicted, it’s quite possible the game will be postponed or even cancelled. The safety of players and fans is paramount, and playing in these conditions would be incredibly risky.
**World today News:** what advice do you have for Buffalo residents?
**Dr. Jones:** My main advice is to stay indoors if at all possible. Avoid all unnecessary travel during the height of the storm.Stock up on supplies like food, water, batteries, and flashlights in case of power outages.
Let your family and friends know your plans and check on neighbors who may need assistance. Most importantly, heed the warnings from local authorities and follow their instructions.
**World Today News:** Thank you for sharing your expertise, Dr. Jones. We hope everyone in Buffalo stays safe during this challenging weather event.
