BUFFALO, N.Y. -- A significant snowfall event is impacting towns along Lakes Erie and Ontario, as well as upstate New York, coinciding with a busy holiday travel period. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for hazardous conditions expected to last into next week.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro declared a disaster emergency as parts of Erie County reported nearly three feet of snow, with additional accumulation anticipated through Monday night. State emergency teams have been deployed to assist stranded drivers and ensure emergency responders can reach those in need.
New York State officials forecast 4 to 6 feet of blowing and drifting snow in areas east of Lake Ontario, prompting Governor Kathy Hochul to also declare a disaster emergency for affected counties. Rapidly worsening weather conditions led to closures along major highways, including Interstate 90, and restrictions on commercial vehicles.
Lake-effect snow is prevalent in the region, resulting from warm moist air mixing with cold air over the lakes. Erie County officials noted that lake temperatures are significantly above average for this time of year, contributing to the heavy snowfall.
Travel disruptions are expected to continue, with the National Weather Service warning that conditions will be extremely difficult and hazardous. The cold snap has also brought Arctic air, resulting in temperatures 10 to 20 degrees below average across the Northern Plains.
As of Saturday morning, nearly two feet of snow had already fallen in parts of New York, Ohio, and Michigan, with additional snowfall expected over the weekend. Areas around Lake Erie could receive up to 15 more inches of snow by Monday.