New York Winter Storm Brings Heavy Snow to Western New York, With Rochester Under Warning and Dangerous Travel Expected Into Thursday

WESTERN NEW YORK – Snow is expected to build across the region later tonight and continue into Thursday, with Winter Storm Warnings in effect in parts of the area including Rochester and a sharp drop in travel conditions expected overnight—especially for the Thursday morning commute.

Forecast maps show widespread accumulation for nearly everyone, but totals will vary significantly by location. The most consistent signal in the guidance is for heavier snow closer to Lake Ontario where lake-enhancement can boost totals, while lower totals are favored south of I-90 into the Finger Lakes.

What’s Happening Tonight Into Thursday

Snow is expected to pick up later tonight and linger into Thursday, with the most disruptive stretch likely occurring overnight into early Thursday. As snowfall rates increase, drivers should be prepared for:

• Rapidly worsening road conditions
• Reduced visibility in heavier bursts
• Snow-covered and slick secondary roads first, then major routes
• The potential for a rough Thursday morning commute

Expected Snow Totals Across Western New York

While totals will vary, the updated snowfall outlook highlights a few clear zones:

• Rochester and much of the immediate metro area: considerable accumulation is expected, with 6–10 inches appearing common in the broader band.
• Areas closest to Lake Ontario (including parts of Niagara/Orleans/Wayne counties): localized higher totals are possible, with 10–14 inches showing up in the most persistent lake-enhanced corridor.
• South of I-90 into the Finger Lakes: totals generally trend lower, commonly 3–6 inches, with some spots potentially ending closer to 1–3 inches depending on where the heaviest bands set up.

Forecasters also noted they can’t rule out isolated higher totals, including potential pockets of heavier snow across Orleans County and possibly Wayne County if lake enhancement locks in longer than expected.

Why Totals Will Vary So Much

Even though “everyone gets snow,” where you are relative to Lake Ontario matters. Locations closer to the lake can pick up an extra boost from lake-effect or lake-enhanced snowfall, which can quickly push totals higher than surrounding towns.

Meanwhile, areas farther inland—especially south of I-90—often see less enhancement, meaning totals can be notably lower even within the same overall storm.

Thursday Could Be Cold Enough to Make Roads Worse

A major part of this setup is what follows the snow: very cold air pouring in Thursday.

Temperatures are expected to fall into the teens and single digits, and wind chills may drop below zero. That matters because when it’s that cold:

• Road salt and treatment can become less effective
• Snow can remain powdery and blow around, reducing visibility
• Any untreated surfaces can stay icy for longer

In other words, even after snowfall rates ease, roads may not improve quickly.

Travel Impacts and What Drivers Should Do

Because conditions are expected to deteriorate overnight, it’s smart to plan now—especially if you drive early Thursday.

• If you can, delay non-essential travel until crews have time to treat roads.
• Assume the Thursday morning commute will be slower than usual.
• Keep extra following distance and watch for black ice, especially on bridges, ramps, and rural roads.
• Pack an emergency kit if you must travel: blanket, charger, flashlight, water, and snacks.

Delays and Cancellations Are Possible

Even though snow totals vary across the region, the bigger message is impact: show, slick roads, and poor travel—especially overnight into early Thursday.

That combination raises the risk of travel disruptions, and it’s possible some areas see delays or cancellations depending on how quickly snow intensifies and where the heaviest bands persist.

If you’re making plans for Thursday morning, build in extra time and be ready to adjust.

If you’re in Western New York, how is it looking where you are—are roads already getting slick, or are you still waiting on the steady snow? Share what you’re seeing with us, and follow along for more updates at Waldron News.