Lake-Effect Snow Set to Bury Parts of New York, Threatening Travel and Bills Game
A fierce cold front is about to unleash a blizzard of lake-effect snow across upstate New York, promising to bury some areas under several feet of snow and snarling travel plans. The National Weather Service predicts the heaviest snowfall will hit Western New York and the Tug Hill plateau, with potentially dangerous conditions possible from Friday through Sunday.
Central New York, including Syracuse, will likely escape the worst of the storm, potentially seeing only an inch or two of snow. However, regions south of Buffalo to the Pennsylvania border and communities surrounding Watertown could be in for a much harsher experience.
The heaviest snow is expected to begin falling Friday, intensifying on Saturday and Sunday. Predicting exact snowfall totals proves challenging, but early forecasts indicate some areas could see over five feet of snow by Monday morning.
Dunkirk, for example, could be buried under 29 to 47 inches of snow, while settlers in Jamestown might see 9 to 17 inches. Pulaski and Lowville could each receive 8 to 16 inches and 11 to 21 inches, respectively. Watertown, in particular, faces the possibility of a truly staggering 49 to 64 inches — more than five feet — of snow by Monday.
The National Weather Service has issued lake-effect snow warnings for several New York counties through Monday morning, including Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie (southern portions), Jefferson, Lewis, Oswego, and Wyoming.
Motorists are strongly advised to be prepared for rapidly changing and potentially hazardous road conditions. Visibility could be drastically reduced, with heavy snow falling in isolated bands.
The storm even threatens to disrupt the Buffalo Bills’ Sunday night game against the San Francisco 49ers. Orchard Park, the team’s home turf, could see 1 to 3 inches of snow on Friday, followed by another 8 to 12 inches on Saturday, and possibly another 10 to 16 inches Saturday night.
"We can’t control the weather," Bills Coach Sean McDermott acknowledged on Wednesday, "But in past Buffalo storms," he added, noting the city’s resilience, "whether it’s 1 feet or 7 feet of snow, the roads can get cleared. Credit to all the people who are out there working. What a phenomenal job they do."
While Sunday’s forecast remains uncertain, this much is for sure: snow thunder, an unusual but powerful weather phenomenon, remains a possibility. How much additional snow accumulates Sunday and into Sunday night is still unknown.
Even central New York isn’t entirely immune to the powerful lake-effect system. Communities south of Syracuse, spanning from Cortland County eastward to Hamilton and into Cooperstown, could experience occasional snow squalls Friday afternoon.
## interview: Battling the Blizzard: A Meteorologist’s Take on the Lake-Effect Snowstorm
**Today, the eyes of the nation are on upstate New York as a powerful lake-effect snowstorm threatens to cripple the region. To better understand the storm’s potential impact adn what measures people shoudl take, we spoke with Dr.Emily parker, a leading meteorologist specializing in winter weather events.**
**World Today News:** Dr. Parker, thanks for joining us. Can you break down what’s driving this intense lake-effect snowstorm?
**Dr. Parker:** absolutely. This storm is a classic example of lake-effect snow. We have a frigid airmass swirling over the relatively warm waters of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. As the cold air picks up moisture from the lakes, it rises, cools, and condenses, leading to heavy snowfall downwind of the lakes. The wind direction is critical here – it will channel these snow bands right into specific areas.
**WTN:** The National weather Service has issued blizzard warnings for parts of New York. What does that mean for residents?
**Dr. Parker:** Blizzard warnings signal extremely perilous conditions. we’re talking about heavy snowfall accumulated at a rapid pace, combined with high winds. This creates near-zero visibility and makes travel practically impossible. Power outages are also a real concern. People should seriously heed these warnings, stay indoors if possible, and avoid all unneeded travel.
**WTN:** Some reports suggest that this storm could dump several feet of snow in certain areas. How will this impact daily life?
**Dr. Parker:** Several feet of snow in a short period will be incredibly disruptive. Roads will be impassable,schools and businesses may close,and emergency services could face delays. This storm has the potential to bring the region to a standstill.
**WTN:** The Buffalo Bills have a game scheduled for this weekend. How is the storm likely to affect the game?
**Dr. Parker:** It’s a tough call. The heaviest snowfall is expected to coincide with game time.While the Bills are known for their resilience, playing in these conditions would be incredibly difficult and perhaps dangerous for both players and fans. Postponement is a real possibility.
**WTN:** What advice would you give to people living in the affected areas?
**Dr. Parker:** My primary advice is to be prepared. Stock up on non-perishable food, water, batteries, and any essential medications. Ensure your heating system is working properly, and have a backup plan in case of a power outage. Most importantly, stay informed. Monitor weather reports closely and follow all official guidance and warnings.
**WTN:** Dr. Parker, thank you for your expertise and valuable insights.
**dr. Parker:** My pleasure. Stay safe everyone.
