The weekend is set to be snowy in many parts of the region, with a lake-effect snowstorm expected to kick in on Saturday night, potentially resulting in between 1 to 2 feet of snow in WNY.
Alongside the snow, intense winds are also forecasted throughout the weekend, peaking on Saturday afternoon. This is mainly due to the shifting of the lake-effect bands from north to south around three or four times, expanding the area impacted by heavy snow, according to Jon Hitchcock from the National Weather Service.
A warning for the winter storm is in effect from 10 a.m. Saturday to 7 a.m. Monday for several counties, including Erie, Genesee and Wyoming, with Niagara and Orleans counties under warning until 3 p.m. Sunday.
High wind warnings also began at 4 p.m. for certain regions, including southern Erie and Allegany counties. Winds of up to 60 mph are expected in these areas. Similarly, other counties, including northern Erie and Niagara, are set to experience wind speeds of 50 mph starting 7 p.m., with these warnings set to end by 4 a.m. on Sunday.
Power outages are anticipated as the winds could knock down trees and power lines. High-profile vehicles may face travel difficulties, according to the weather service.