Buffalo NY weather is currently dominated by an intense multi-hazard winter storm that is impacting the region with high winds, snow showers, potential flooding, and dangerous travel conditions. As of Monday, December 29, 2025, multiple weather warnings and advisories remain in effect across Western New York, and residents are urged to stay informed as conditions evolve. This comprehensive update explores every facet of today’s verified weather situation, short- and long-term forecasts, impacts on daily life, and essential safety information.
Table of Contents
Current Conditions: Active Storm Across Buffalo and Western New York
Buffalo NY weather this morning is cold, windy, and increasingly snowy as a powerful storm system moves in from the Great Lakes region.
Meteorological data this morning in Buffalo shows:
- Temperature: Near freezing, with readings in the lower 30s (°F).
- Wind: Southwest winds sustained at high speeds, frequently gusting above 48 mph and up to near 70 mph along the Lake Erie shoreline and downtown Buffalo areas.
- Snow Showers & Blowing Snow: Periodic snow showers are occurring, with blowing snow reducing visibility and creating hazardous conditions.
- Wind Chill: Actual feel-like temperatures are significantly lower due to strong winds.
The combination of snow, wind, and blowing snow is making travel difficult in many parts of the city and surrounding counties. These conditions reflect the most recent verified reports from local weather stations and forecasts issued this morning for Buffalo and the region.
Severe Weather Alerts in Effect Today
Multiple active weather warnings are in effect as part of the current Buffalo NY weather situation:
❄️ High Wind Warning
A High Wind Warning remains active through late tonight into early Tuesday, with winds from 35–45 mph and gusts up to 75 mph expected in parts of Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, and Chautauqua Counties. The strongest gusts are anticipated along the Lake Erie shoreline and downtown Buffalo. These winds are capable of knocking down trees, snapping power lines, and causing widespread power outages. High-profile vehicles should avoid travel where possible.
❄️ Winter Weather Advisory
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for areas including northern Erie and Genesee Counties, where 2–5 inches of snow is expected. Snow and blowing snow will create slick road surfaces and hazardous travel conditions.
❄️ Winter Storm Warning
Southern Erie, Wyoming, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus Counties are under a Winter Storm Warning from this afternoon through early Friday. Snowfall totals of 1–3 feet are possible by the end of the week due to persistent lake-effect snow.
🌊 Lakeshore Flood Warning
Along the Lake Erie shoreline, a Lakeshore Flood Warning is active, meaning coastal areas may experience flooding, beach erosion, and hazardous wave action.
🌧️ Flood Watch
A Flood Watch remains in place for parts of the region due to recent rainfall and melting snow before today’s storm. This increases the risk of minor flooding in low-lying areas.
These alerts reflect the multi-layered threats associated with the current storm system affecting Buffalo NY weather, including wind, snow, and potential flooding.
Storm Development: What’s Driving This Weather Event?
The current storm impacting Buffalo is not a typical snow event. Meteorologists describe it as a multi-hazard winter storm, with elements of strong wind, cold air intrusion, and developing lake-effect snow.
This system has characteristics of a bomb cyclone, a rapidly intensifying storm caused when cold, dry Arctic air collides with warmer, moist air. This setup fuels heavy winds, fluctuating precipitation, and rapid changes in weather conditions across the Great Lakes and Northeast. The storm’s progression reflects a classic pattern where:
- Southwesterly winds strengthen ahead of a cold front.
- Temperature contrasts between the lakes and incoming Arctic air promote lake-effect snow band formation.
- Wind increases dramatically, especially near open areas like lakeshore roads and bridges.
The initial wall of wind passed through the Buffalo-Niagara region early Monday, ushering in a surge of colder air. Winds reaching gusts near 65–75 mph were observed, prompting early closures and advisories. The storm continues to evolve, and its influence on Buffalo NY weather will persist through the end of the week.
Skyway Closure and Travel Impacts in Buffalo
Due to dangerous winds and reduced visibility, the Buffalo Skyway — a major elevated roadway — closed at 6 a.m. Monday as part of preemptive safety measures. This closure highlights how severe winds can compromise elevated roadways and make travel extremely dangerous.
In addition to the Skyway closure:
- Major highways in and around Buffalo have restrictions for high-profile vehicles.
- Truck bans and vehicle advisories are being enforced on select routes due to gusty conditions.
- Commuters and travelers should expect sudden changes in travel advisories, including potential closures or restrictions as the storm progresses.
Travel impacts are especially pronounced near shorelines and open bridges where wind gusts are strongest and snow can drift quickly across road surfaces.
Detailed Short-Term Forecast for Buffalo NY Weather
Here is the verified 7-day outlook for Buffalo NY weather, highlighting expected conditions and key trends.
Monday, December 29 — Severe Winter Storm
- Morning: Windy with snow showers and gusty winds; temperatures near freezing.
- Afternoon: Snow developing off Lake Erie, blowing snow, wind gusts near 70 mph.
- Evening: Snow continues with widespread blowing snow and reduced visibility.
- Snow Accumulation: 2–5 inches possible locally with higher amounts southeast of Buffalo.
Tuesday, December 30
- Morning: Snow showers continue, colder air settles in.
- Afternoon: Occasional snow showers, highs in the mid-20s (°F).
- Wind: Winds remain gusty (near 30–40 mph), though lower than Monday.
Wednesday, December 31
- Conditions: Snow showers in the morning, continued cold temperatures.
- Highs/Lows: Near 20°F. Snow amounts modest, but persistent.
Thursday, January 1
- Snow Showers: Periodic flurries into the day.
- Cold: Morning lows near 10°F; highs still in the 20s.
Friday, January 2
- Blowing Snow: Night and morning lingering snow showers.
- Clearing: Cloudy later with reduced snow activity.
Weekend Outlook
- Temperature: Cold with intermittent flurries.
- Wind: Milder wind speeds.
- Snow Potential: Lower than earlier in the week but still possible.
Throughout the week, the risk of lake-effect snow remains elevated, especially southeast of Buffalo where wind direction will funnel moisture off Lake Erie.
Lake-Effect Snow: Persistent Threat Through Week
One of the defining features of this storm is the long-term potential for lake-effect snow.
Lake-effect snow occurs when:
- Extremely cold air moves over relatively warmer lake water.
- The temperature contrast causes moisture to rise rapidly.
- Bands of snow form and intensify as they move inland.
As the storm system continues, lake-effect snow bands are expected to develop and linger in areas downwind of Lake Erie and, later in the week, Lake Ontario. Northern and southern suburbs may see significant snow accumulation due to this phenomenon. Lake-effect snow can be localized but intense — dropping several inches in concentrated areas while nearby regions see lighter amounts.
Storm Impacts: Snow, Wind, and Flood Risks
Snow Accumulation
The core snow event is expected across southern parts of Erie, Wyoming, and Chautauqua Counties, where 1–3 feet of snow remains possible by Friday, especially where lake-effect bands are strongest.
Wind Damage
Wind gusts near 65–75 mph pose risks of:
- Downed trees and limbs.
- Power outages.
- Damaged outdoor structures.
- Dangerous wind chills.
The sustained wind event — especially today — is a key component of the storm’s severity.
Lakeshore Flood and Wave Action
Coastal regions near Lake Erie are experiencing flooding and wave overtopping along lakeshore roads, parks, and waterfront areas. Sandbagging and access restrictions to hazard zones may be necessary.
Travel Disruption
Blowing snow and strong winds are reducing visibility on area roadways, leading to:
- Hazardous driving conditions.
- Delays on regional and interstate highways.
- Canceled or delayed flights at nearby airports.
The combination of snow and wind makes driving treacherous, particularly for longer distances or rural roads.
Why Buffalo’s Winter Weather Can Be So Severe
Buffalo’s geographic location makes it uniquely susceptible to harsh winter weather events:
- Lake Erie and Lake Ontario Proximity: Cold air masses interacting with open lake water fuel snow bands.
- Frequent Storm Tracks: Buffalo sits in a corridor where winter storms often intensify.
- Wind Exposure: Open plains and lakeshore corridors allow for high wind speeds.
December is historically one of the coldest and snowiest months for Buffalo, with average temperatures near freezing and frequent winter precipitation patterns. This storm fits well within the region’s climatological behavior for late December, though its intensity is notable.
City and County Preparedness Measures
Local authorities and utility services in Buffalo and Erie County have mobilized resources in anticipation of this storm:
- Snow removal crews are on standby across key roads and highways.
- Emergency services are prepared for rapid response to accidents and stranded motorists.
- Utility crews are positioned to address power outage repairs quickly.
- Community centers and shelters are prepared for those in need during severe wind and snow.
These preparations aim to reduce the impact on residents and ensure essential services remain available through the storm.
Safety Recommendations for Residents and Visitors
Given the severity of current Buffalo NY weather conditions, residents are strongly encouraged to:
- Avoid Non-Essential Travel: Road conditions are dangerous due to wind and blowing snow.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Strong gusts can turn loose objects into hazards.
- Stay Away from Lakeshore Zones: Flooding and wave action can be unpredictable and intense.
- Prepare for Outages: Charge devices and have emergency supplies ready.
- Check Weather Updates Frequently: Conditions may change rapidly.
Staying informed through local weather forecasts and alerts can make a crucial difference in safety during this storm event.
Long-Term Outlook: Continuing Winter Conditions
This storm signals the start of extended winter weather challenges for Buffalo NY weather. Even after the worst of the current system passes, Arctic cold air and lake-effect snow patterns will continue to influence the region through early January. Snow accumulations, below-average temperatures, and occasional gusty winds are likely to remain part of the forecast.
Residents should plan for:
- Persistent cold temperatures through early January.
- Intermittent lake-effect snow events.
- Continued travel and outdoor hazards.
This signals a strong start to a typical Western New York winter that demands respect and preparedness.
Conclusion
Buffalo NY weather today is marked by an active and potentially dangerous winter storm. Strong winds, lake-effect snow, flooding concerns, and hazardous travel conditions are already affecting the region as of Monday, December 29, 2025. Multiple warnings and advisories remain in effect, and residents should continue to monitor forecasts and alerts throughout the week.
Winter weather isn’t just coming — it’s here, and it’s impacting daily life across the Buffalo area. Stay safe, take precautions, and prepare for continued winter challenges in the days ahead.
How is today’s Buffalo NY weather affecting you? Leave a comment below or share your local updates — and stay prepared as conditions evolve!
