The National Weather Service has announced a Winter Storm Warning for seven of the eight counties in Western New York, starting Wednesday afternoon and lasting through Thursday evening or Friday morning, depending on the specific area.
On Thursday and Thursday night, residents can expect wind chills to drop below zero. In the northern part of the region, which includes Niagara, Orleans, Northern Erie, and Genesee Counties, the Winter Storm Warning will remain in effect until 7 p.m. on Thursday, January 15. Heavy snowfall is anticipated, with accumulations ranging between five and 10 inches. Notably, higher snowfall amounts are expected in northern Niagara and Orleans counties.
For Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Southern Erie, and Wyoming Counties, the warning will continue until 1 a.m. on Friday, January 16, with snowfall expected to reach between six and 12 inches. The most significant accumulation is projected across the Chautauqua Ridge and Boston Hills areas.
Additionally, Allegany County will be under a Winter Weather Advisory starting at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, January 14, until 1 p.m. on Thursday, January 15, with expected snow totals between three and six inches.
As an extension of the weather alerts, Environment Canada has also issued a Yellow-level snow warning for a wide area of Southern Ontario, which includes Toronto, Hamilton, and communities in the Niagara Peninsula.
This winter storm is set to bring significant snowfall across the region, but communities are urged to prepare and stay safe during the harsh weather conditions. As winter storms are a part of seasonal cycles, residents have the opportunity to equip themselves for the challenges ahead, showcasing resilience and community spirit during these frosty months.