WNY Faces State of Emergency Amid Intense Storm Conditions

A State of Emergency was declared for Erie, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Genesee, Allegany, and Wyoming counties shortly before 2:45 p.m.

By Sheenu Gupta On Nov 30, 2024 Share with new partner:

On Friday, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that several counties across Western New York have been placed under a State of Emergency due to a winter storm that is expected to impact the region over the weekend. The affected counties include Erie, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Genesee, Allegany, and Wyoming, with the declaration made just before 2:45 p.m.

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz provided additional details, warning that Southern Erie County, particularly towns such as Brant, Eden, Evans, Hamburg, and parts of Orchard Park, will experience “extreme impacts” from the storm. These areas are expected to face significant disruptions, while Northern Erie County is projected to receive up to six inches of snow at most. The State of Emergency aims to provide local officials with additional resources to manage the storm’s impact and ensure public safety.

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz assured the public that while the snow accumulation expected through Monday is significant, it is manageable due to the fact that the snowfall will occur over a two-day period, giving authorities time to respond. In addition to the counties previously mentioned, several others across New York have also been placed under a State of Emergency as a precaution.

Although snow is not anticipated to fall during the Buffalo Bills game on Sunday night, the region surrounding Highmark Stadium is expected to see 20-30 inches of snow in the hours leading up to the game. The storm began to impact the area on Friday, with snow accumulating steadily throughout the day.

Some areas, particularly those along the lake, are expected to experience heavy snowfalls, with several feet predicted in Southern Erie County and Chautauqua County. The highest concentrations of lake-effect snow are expected to target higher elevations south of Route 20A starting Friday night. The snowfall will continue through the weekend, with Chautauqua County expected to see lake-effect snow beginning late Friday night into Saturday morning.

As the storm progresses into Saturday, areas north of Buffalo are expected to begin receiving snow, although the totals will remain relatively minor. However, the region will also experience gusty winds of up to 30 mph on both Friday and Saturday, which are likely to create whiteout conditions, making travel hazardous.

In preparation for the winter weather, Buffalo Mayor Christopher Scanlon announced that the City of Buffalo’s winter parking regulations will be enforced starting at 6 a.m. on Saturday. These regulations are intended to facilitate snow removal and ensure roadways remain clear for emergency response.

Additionally, a Code Blue has been issued for Erie County and the City of Buffalo on Friday night, prompting the opening of overnight shelters to provide a safe refuge for those in need of warmth. The following shelters will be open from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m.:

• 586 Genesee St., Buffalo, NY 14204

• Dulski Center, 129 Lewis St., Buffalo, NY 14206

For those needing daytime warmth, a Daytime Warming Center will be available on Saturday at:

• 586 Genesee St., Buffalo, NY 14204