If you’re in Niagara County, get ready for some serious winter weather. A Lake Effect Snow Warning is in effect until 1 PM Wednesday (February 19, 2025), and some areas could see as much as 8 inches of fresh snow before this storm moves out.
Driving could be a real challenge, especially in spots where heavy snow squalls set up. If you don’t need to be on the road, it’s best to stay put. Visibility could drop to near zero at times, and the wind is only going to make things worse.
What’s Happening Right Now?
Right now, things aren’t too bad yet, but lake effect snow bands are forming, and some areas are already seeing steady snowfall. As of this morning, here’s how it’s looking:
- Niagara Falls: 8°F (-13°C), mostly sunny
- Lockport: 7°F (-14°C), cloudy with flurries
- Lewiston: 9°F (-13°C), light snow showers moving in
The snow is just getting started, and as it picks up, road conditions will go downhill fast.
What’s Coming Next?
Tuesday (Feb. 18 – Today)
- Morning & Afternoon: Snowfall will get heavier as lake effect bands shift south. Some areas could see 1 to 2 inches per hour, making roads slick and visibility poor.
- Evening: The snow keeps coming, with wind gusts up to 35 mph blowing snow around and making it hard to see.
Wednesday (Feb. 19 – Tomorrow)
- Morning: Snow continues, but the heaviest stuff should start winding down by late morning.
- Afternoon: A few lingering snow showers, but overall, the worst will be over. Roads will still be slick, and temperatures will stay below freezing.
How Much Snow Are We Getting?
Not everyone will see the same totals, but here’s what’s expected:
- Niagara Falls: 4 to 8 inches, with heavy bursts possible.
- Lockport: 5 to 7 inches, plus blowing snow making roads worse.
- Lewiston: 3 to 6 inches, with some lighter snowfall later on.
Lake effect snow is notoriously unpredictable—one part of town might get just a few inches, while a few miles away it’s a winter wonderland.
What You Need to Watch For
Roads Will Be a Mess – Snow will pile up fast, and gusty winds will blow snow across highways, reducing visibility.
Bitter Cold – With temps in the single digits, wind chills could drop to -10°F or colder.
Blowing & Drifting Snow – Even after the snow stops falling, the wind will keep pushing snow back onto roads, making plowing tough.
Weather Alerts You Should Know About
Lake Effect Snow Warning – Until 1 PM Wednesday for Niagara County. Expect heavy snow, strong winds, and rough travel conditions.
Winds Up to 35 MPH – Snow will blow around, making it hard to see while driving.
Wind Chill Advisory – With wind chills below zero, frostbite can happen in as little as 30 minutes if you’re not dressed properly.
How to Stay Safe in This Storm
Avoid Driving If You Can – If you don’t need to be on the roads, stay home. If you do, drive slowly and keep extra blankets and snacks in your car just in case.
Be Prepared for Delays & Closures – Schools, businesses, and even major highways could close if conditions get bad.
Dress Warm & Cover Your Skin – It’s brutally cold out there, so layer up and make sure you cover your hands, face, and head.
Check on Family & Neighbors – Make sure elderly family members and neighbors have heat, food, and someone checking in on them.
Stock Up on Essentials – Grab groceries, water, and medications now, before roads become impassable.
Keep Pets Inside – If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them.
This isn’t the biggest snowstorm of the year, but it will cause serious travel problems through Wednesday afternoon. Stay off the roads if you can, and if you do have to drive, take it slow and be ready for sudden whiteout conditions.
