A lake effect storm warning, with over a foot of snow, has been issued for Western New York through into Friday. The National Weather Service in Buffalo warns residents to beware of high winds, heavy snowfall, and dangerous travel conditions. The warning has been issued for Northern Erie, Genesee, Wyoming, and Southern Erie - including the cities of Buffalo, Batavia, Warsaw, Orchard Park, and Springville.

WNYers should expect winter storm conditions,

Heavy lake effect snow possible. Total snow accumulations of over 9 inches possible in the most persistent lake snows. Winds could gust as high as 45 mph resulting in considerable blowing and drifting snow. The strongest winds will be Wednesday night.

In addition to the lake effect snow warning, a Gale warning has also been issued for our area until 7 am on Thursday, January 6, 2022. The warning is in effect for water vessels,

The nearshore waters of Lake Erie from Ripley to Buffalo, and the Upper Niagara River and Buffalo Harbor.

WHEN...From 9 AM Wednesday to 7 AM EST Thursday.

 

IMPACTS...Strong winds will cause hazardous waves which could capsize or damage vessels and reduce visibility.

 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Mariners should alter plans to avoid these hazardous conditions. Remain in port, seek safe harbor, alter course, and/or secure the vessel for severe conditions.

New York State Governor Kathy Hochul has already instructed emergency crews to be ready for the mess and potential injuries and deaths the storm may cause,

"Forecasts are calling for up to nine inches of snow in Western New York and the North Country in the coming days. At my direction, state agencies have already begun preparing their responses and stand ready to support any of our local partners who may need assistance. Now is the time for people to begin preparing, and I encourage everyone to closely monitor their local forecasts, use caution while traveling and take the steps necessary for keeping their households safe."

This evening, snowfall can potentially hit up to one inch per hour with winds of up to 45 miles per hour.

The State Department of Transportation is ready for storm clean up with the following equipment ready to be deployed to the affected areas,

· 1,583 snowplows
· 322 large loaders
· 148 medium-duty plows
· 51 tow plows
· 38 snow blowers
· 22 pickup trucks with plows
· 20 graders

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