If you’re planning a romantic Valentine’s Day weekend in Buffalo, you may need to adjust your plans. A winter storm is set to bring significant snowfall, icy conditions, and potential travel disruptions across the region.
Forecasters are warning that the storm will start with cloudy skies and cold temperatures before delivering steady snowfall on Saturday and Sunday. Roads could become slippery, and blowing snow may create reduced visibility, making travel hazardous. If you’re heading out this weekend, be prepared for challenging winter conditions.
FRIDAY: COLD AND CLOUDY BEFORE THE STORM MOVES IN
Friday will be a quiet but cold day, with temperatures hovering around 21°F (-6°C) during the day and dropping to 18°F (-8°C) overnight. While no major snowfall is expected yet, clouds will start rolling in as the approaching system builds momentum.
If you have errands to run or travel to complete, Friday is your best bet before conditions deteriorate.
SATURDAY: STEADY SNOWFALL MAKES TRAVEL DIFFICULT
By Saturday, the storm will begin making its presence felt. Snow is expected to fall throughout the day, accumulating between 1 to 3 inches (3 to 6 cm). Temperatures will be slightly warmer than Friday, reaching a high of 35°F (2°C) before dipping to 27°F (-3°C) at night.
With steady snowfall covering the roads, drivers should prepare for slick conditions. Untreated surfaces, such as sidewalks, parking lots, and side streets, will quickly become slippery. If you must travel, take it slow and allow extra stopping distance.
SUNDAY: MORE SNOW, GUSTY WINDS, AND FREEZING TEMPERATURES
Sunday will bring more of the same wintery mess. Intermittent snow showers will continue, adding another 1 to 3 inches (3 to 6 cm) of accumulation. But the bigger concern will be gusty winds picking up in the afternoon, which could lead to blowing snow and reduced visibility on the roads.
With a high of 31°F (0°C) and an overnight low of just 12°F (-11°C), anything that melts during the day will refreeze at night, making Monday morning’s commute even trickier.
TRAVEL WARNING: ROADS COULD BE TREACHEROUS ALL WEEKEND
With snow, ice, and gusty winds creating dangerous driving conditions, it’s important to stay cautious:
- Stay Updated: Check local forecasts for real-time updates on road conditions and snowfall totals.
- Limit Travel: If possible, avoid unnecessary trips during periods of heavy snow.
- Drive Safely: If you must drive, slow down, leave extra space between vehicles, and avoid sudden braking.
- Prepare for Delays: Snow-covered roads and reduced visibility may slow down commutes, so plan accordingly.
FINAL THOUGHTS: STAY SAFE AND PREPARE FOR A COLD, SNOWY WEEKEND
Buffalo’s Valentine’s Day weekend will feel like a classic winter storm—cold, snowy, and potentially disruptive. If you’re planning a cozy night in, you’re in luck. But for those hitting the roads, be ready for slippery conditions and low visibility.
