Heavy snow will begin in areas off Lakes Erie and Ontario beginning this Friday (11/29) and continuing throughout the weekend:

• 2 to 3 feet of snowfall is forecast, with higher localized amounts of 4 to 5 feet expected in the Tug Hill Plateau area. 
• Snowfall rates of up to 4 inches per hour are expected at times.
• Visibility will be drastically reduced with near whiteout conditions and traveling becoming dangerous.
• Winds gusts 30 to 35 mph are expected which may knock down trees and power lines.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch and a Lake Effect Storm Warning for Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Erie, Jefferson, Lewis, Oswego, and Wyoming counties through December 2nd. During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally heavy snow with greatly reduced visibilities to dry conditions just a few miles away. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, visibility, and road conditions.

Consider delaying travel. If you must travel, drive with extreme caution. Leave plenty of room between you and the motorist ahead of you, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and be especially cautious on hills or when making turns.

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Keep up to date with the current weather information with the National Weather Service: https://www.weather.gov/buf/

• Expect delays and closures. If you can’t avoid traveling: clean off your vehicle before driving. Drive slow, and don’t use cruise control. Roads can be slick even if they just look wet. Leave extra distance between vehicles and don’t crowd the plows!
• Practice safe shoveling: dress warm, stay hydrated, move only small amounts of snow, and take frequent breaks. 
• If you’re stranded in a vehicle, avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by running the motor for 10 minutes every hour. While your car is running, open the windows slightly for fresh air. Keep your exhaust pipe clear of snow.
• Watch for signs of hypothermia: confusion, shivering, difficulty speaking, sleepiness, and stiff muscles. Seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms. If no help is available, the victim should be warmed slowly with warm liquids along with dry clothing and blankets.
• Tips to operate generators safely: https://www.dhses.ny.gov/generator-safety