The season’s first significant snowstorm brought heavy lake-effect snow to areas near Lakes Erie and Ontario, causing disruptions during the busy holiday travel and shopping weekend.
In New York, forecasters warned of 4-6ft (1.2-1.8 meters) of snow by Monday, particularly in Watertown and areas east of Lake Ontario.
Along Lake Erie and south of Buffalo, snowfall rates reached 2-4 inches (5-10cm) an hour. These intense snowfalls result from warm lake waters—currently 50°F (10°C), about 6°F warmer than average—mixing with cold, dry air above, according to William Geary, Erie County Public Works Commissioner.
Governor Kathy Hochul declared a disaster emergency for affected counties, mobilizing state resources to combat rapidly deteriorating road conditions.
Interstate 90 closures and bans on commercial vehicles along Interstate 86 and US Route 219 further underscored the challenges.
Gregory Butcher, Erie County Deputy Director for Preparedness, reported numerous vehicles sliding off roads, prompting the use of ATVs and snowmobiles to assist first responders.
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula braces for 3ft snowfall with reduced visibility and icy roads.Buffalo also faced logistical challenges as more than 2ft (0.6 meters) of snow was expected at Highmark Stadium before the Bills’ Sunday game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Volunteers were called to clear the field, with Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz stating the heaviest snow would likely pass by kickoff.
In Michigan, heavy snow blanketed the Upper Peninsula, with some areas already seeing more than a foot (0.3 meters) by Friday afternoon.
Meteorologists from the National Weather Service in Gaylord forecast up to 3ft (1 meter) of snow through Monday. Gusty winds reduced visibility, making travel hazardous.
Meteorologist Lily Chapman highlighted the sustained north-westerly winds and frigid air creating an ideal setup for prolonged lake-effect snow.
Despite challenging conditions, no major accidents had been reported in Michigan as of Friday, though officials advised caution.
As both states grapple with ongoing snowfall, residents are bracing for more wintry conditions in the weeks ahead.