Residents in Buffalo, Rochester, and western New York should brace for a powerful round of severe thunderstorms set to sweep through the region late Sunday into early Monday morning. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for damaging winds, torrential rainfall, and the potential for hail as a strong cold front moves eastward.
What to Expect From the Storm
Forecasters are closely watching this system, which has the potential to bring:
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Damaging wind gusts reaching speeds of 50-60 mph, capable of knocking down trees and power lines.
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Heavy rain is increasing the risk of localized flooding in low-lying and urban areas.
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Hail formation, which could cause minor damage to vehicles, rooftops, and gardens.
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Frequent lightning makes outdoor activities especially dangerous.
When Will the Storm Arrive?
The storm timeline suggests that the worst of the weather will hit at the following times:
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8 PM – 10 PM: Storms begin forming west of Buffalo, moving toward Lake Erie and Niagara County.
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10 PM – 2 AM: The most intense storms will impact Buffalo, Rochester, and nearby areas, bringing high winds and heavy downpours.
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2 AM – 6 AM: The storm shifts eastward, with rain lingering in parts of western and central New York before clearing by sunrise.
Travel Concerns and Safety Tips
With strong winds and heavy rain in the forecast, drivers should prepare for hazardous road conditions. Key concerns include:
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Poor visibility due to torrential rain.
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Flooded roadways, particularly in low-lying areas.
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Downed tree limbs and power outages which may affect streetlights and intersections.
If you don’t need to travel overnight, it’s best to stay indoors until conditions improve.
How to Stay Safe During the Storm
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Charge your devices ahead of time in case of power outages.
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Secure outdoor furniture and objects that could be blown away by strong winds.
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Stay off the roads during peak storm hours.
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Monitor weather alerts through local news, weather apps, or a NOAA Weather Radio.
What’s Next? A Cooler Start to the Week
Once the storms exit the region Monday morning, expect cooler temperatures and breezy conditions for the remainder of the day. Sunshine will return by the afternoon, providing a much-needed break from the stormy weather.
Residents should remain weather-aware overnight and take all necessary precautions as this fast-moving system moves through western New York.
