Erie and Crawford counties are now under a lake-effect snow warning that will be in effect from Wednesday afternoon until Saturday morning. The National Weather Service anticipates an additional snowfall accumulation of 10 to 18 inches, with the potential for even higher totals in certain localized areas.
This upcoming winter weather event is expected to be accompanied by strong winds, reaching speeds of up to 50 mph. Such conditions could lead to hazardous travel, as blowing snow may significantly reduce visibility. The combination of heavy snowfall and gusty winds also raises the risk of damage to structures in the vicinity.
Parts of Erie County are still recovering from a substantial snowfall that followed Thanksgiving, and the new snowfall could exacerbate existing conditions. The snow warning was issued early Wednesday, taking over from a previous winter storm watch.
The forecast predicts that an Arctic front will move into the area, likely bringing intense snowfall with rapidly worsening conditions, including one to two inches of snow in a short period. The weather service has mentioned that visibility could drop to as low as one-fourth of a mile due to these conditions.
In terms of specific snowfall predictions, Erie County could see between 10 to 18 inches between Wednesday night and early Saturday, particularly in the southern and eastern regions and northern Crawford County.
The daily forecast includes snow showers on Wednesday, with predictions of 3 to 5 inches of accumulation at night. Thursday could bring heavier snowfall, estimating 4 to 8 inches during the day, followed by an additional 2 to 4 inches at night. Friday may see further snow showers with accumulations of 1 to 3 inches during the day and 2 to 4 inches at night. On Saturday, there is a 60% chance of snow showers primarily before 1 p.m.
In a positive light, weather experts have projected a warm-up starting Sunday, with high temperatures expected to reach 44 degrees or higher through the following Tuesday, indicating that the region may soon see a reprieve from the winter weather.
It is advisable for residents to stay informed about the latest weather updates and to take precautions while traveling during this period of severe snow and wind conditions.