A powerful snowstorm has hit Western New York, causing hazardous conditions and prompting officials to implement travel bans across the region. Erie County Commissioner Bill Geary and County Executive Mark Poloncarz have been actively monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for residents to stay off the roads.

With snowfall rates between 2-5 inches per hour and strong gusts of wind, whiteout conditions have been reported throughout Erie County. The snow band has even reached areas of Niagara County that are not accustomed to heavy snowfall. Middleport received 17 inches of snow, while North Tonawanda accumulated approximately 9 inches.

Although travel bans were lifted in some towns, including Holland, Colden, Sardinia, Concord, North Collins, and Collins, for the rest of the county, the ban remains in effect. Poloncarz urged residents to remain indoors and cautioned against driving into areas where bans are still in place, as sudden and intense snowfall can create dangerous situations.

Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her appreciation for Western New Yorkers who adhered to the travel ban overnight and commended the efforts of state and local crews for their progress in clearing roadways. The governor also made the decision to reschedule the Buffalo Bills playoff game to Monday, ensuring a safer environment for all involved.

Despite the challenging conditions, there have been fewer major incidents reported on the Thruway compared to previous storms. The lack of commercial trucks stuck on the highway has been a positive outcome of the storm management efforts.

As the storm continues, Tops Markets has begun reopening its stores, although limited service and potential delays may occur due to staffing constraints. Warming shelters in the City of Buffalo will remain open to assist those in need.

Local transportation services, such as the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority, have announced a restoration of limited bus and rail services after temporary suspension.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for several counties, including Erie, Genesee, and Wyoming, set to expire on Monday. For Niagara and Orleans counties, the warning is expected to last until Sunday afternoon.

With the snow band oscillating from north to south, various areas will experience accumulation at different times. Meteorologist Jon Hitchcock has reassured residents that the snow band will not linger in one place for an extended period, reducing the risk of extreme snowfall in localized areas.

Overnight, heavy snowfall and blowing snow are anticipated. Snow showers will continue into Monday, with winds gusting up to 38 mph. By Monday night, some areas, such as Hamburg, could see up to 2 feet of total snowfall throughout the duration of the storm.

While the snow bands will gradually weaken throughout Monday, frigid temperatures in the teens will persist accompanied by strong winds. Wind chills during the Buffalo Bills game on Monday evening are expected to approach zero.

Local authorities advise residents to stay updated on weather warnings and to exercise caution while venturing outside. The priority remains the safety and well-being of the community as Western New York bravely weathers this severe winter storm.