A driving advisory is in effect through 8 a.m. Monday in Niagara Falls due to icy road conditions as state officials warn of a blast of winter weather.
In addition, the state DOT is closing the Skyway in Buffalo starting at 6 a.m. on Monday until further notice at the request of the City of Buffalo, due to high winds forecasted.
Beginning at 6 a.m. on Monday morning until further notice, an empty tractor trailer and tandem ban will be taking place on the following state highways in Western New York:
• I-190
• I-90 (Thruway Authority Section from Exit 46 to the PA Line both east and west bound)
• I-290 (From I-190 to I-90)
• I-990 (I-90 to State Route 263 Millersport Highway)
• Rte 400 (I-90 to State Route 16)
• Rte 219 (I-90 to State Route 39)
• I-86 ( PA Line to I-390)
Western New York could see excessive rainfall and flooding combined with high winds before lake effect snow moves in. Parts of Western New York could potentially see one to two feet of snow through Wednesday. As forecasts throughout the week solidify, lake effect snow may continue throughout the week.
A Flood Watch also has been issued for parts of Western New York, the Finger Lakes and the North Country as a slight risk of excessive rainfall is possible. One to two inches of rain could cause flooding of rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying areas. Strong winds also are anticipated for these regions, with gusts of 60 to 70 mph possible.
Winter Storm Warnings and Watches are also in effect for parts of Western and Central New York, Finger Lakes, Mohawk Valley and North Country as snow begins Monday afternoon and continues through Wednesday. Parts of the North Country, Western and Central New York could see between one to two feet of snow with this system combined with high winds and cold temperatures. Snowfall rates of up to two inches an hour and strong winds will create significant blowing and drifting snow and near whiteout conditions in lake effect areas. Drivers should leave themselves extra time between destinations and pack emergency supplies to help ensure their safety.
“Winter storms are approaching several regions of New York State bringing ice, snow and high winds that will make roadways hazardous,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said. “New Yorkers should monitor local forecasts and take caution to avoid travel in impacted areas. Plow crews, emergency management teams and utility personnel have been deployed and are ready to keep New Yorkers safe throughout the storm.”