(WNY News Now) – Chautauqua County officials are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel as lake effect snow, strong winds, and whiteout conditions continue to affect the region.
MAYVILLE, NY — A Travel Advisory remains in effect across all of Chautauqua County due to ongoing lake effect snow, strong winds, and blowing snow. The advisory, issued through 7:00 a.m. Thursday, January 1, 2026, is not a travel ban but strongly recommends that residents postpone nonessential trips.
“While this is not a travel ban, it is a serious advisory,” said County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. “If you don’t have to be on the roads, we strongly encourage you to wait until conditions improve. Lake effect snow and blowing snow can change conditions very quickly, even if a road looks clear when you start your trip.”
The National Weather Service reports a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through 1:00 a.m. Friday. Heavy snow, gusty winds, and periods of whiteout conditions are expected to continue, with lake effect snow bands shifting throughout the week, creating highly variable conditions over short distances.
Key Weather Impacts:
- Snowfall totals: 1 to 3 feet possible in persistent lake effect areas
- Wind gusts: Up to 45 mph, causing blowing and drifting snow
- Travel: Treacherous road conditions with sudden whiteouts
Sheriff James Quattrone reminded motorists that visibility can drop rapidly. “Even if conditions appear manageable at one moment, lake effect snow and blowing snow can quickly reduce visibility to near zero. Motorists should slow down, avoid unnecessary travel, and be prepared for sudden changes from mile to mile.”
Safety Tips for Residents:
Officials also stress the importance of fire and carbon monoxide safety during the prolonged winter event. Residents are urged to clear vents, operate generators outdoors, avoid using grills indoors, and ensure carbon monoxide detectors are working. Checking on neighbors, particularly older adults or those living alone, is also recommended.
County highway and public facilities crews continue working around the clock to keep roads passable. Tim Card, Director of Public Facilities, said, “Blowing snow means roads may need to be cleared repeatedly. We ask motorists to slow down, give plows plenty of room, and never attempt to pass them.”
Travel Reminders:
- Slow down and increase following distance
- Avoid using cruise control
- Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle
- Be prepared for sudden whiteout conditions
Residents are encouraged to stay updated on the latest forecasts by visiting weather.gov and monitoring county updates at chqgov.com or via social media @ChautauquaCountyGovernment.
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