MAYVILLE, NY - Chautauqua County officials are urging residents to avoid travel as a major winter storm impacts Chautauqua County, bringing heavy snowfall, strong winds, and rapidly deteriorating road conditions.
A Travel Advisory is issued for all of Chautauqua County from 3:30 p.m. Monday, January 29, 2025, through 7:00 a.m. Thursday, January 1, 2026.
According to the National Weather Service, the Winter Storm Severity Index has reached the “Major” category, signaling dangerous to impossible travel conditions, widespread disruptions, and potential impacts to critical infrastructure.
Snow is actively falling across the county, with 18 to 24 inches of accumulation expected. Snowfall rates are reaching 1 to 2 inches per hour, with bursts of up to 3 inches per hour in intense lake effect snow bands. Whiteout conditions are occurring, with visibility reduced to near zero at times due to blowing and drifting snow.
County Officials Urge Extreme Caution
“Conditions are deteriorating quickly, and travel is becoming increasingly dangerous,” said Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. “If you do not need to be on the roads, please stay home. Staying off the roads helps protect you and allows plow crews, law enforcement, and emergency responders to operate safely.”
“Whiteout conditions can develop in minutes, even on roads that were recently plowed,” said Chautauqua County Sheriff James Quattrone. “We are asking motorists to slow down, increase following distance, and give snowplows and emergency vehicles the space they need to do their jobs.”
Noel Guttman, Chautauqua County Director of Emergency Services, added, “This storm is ongoing and long-lasting. Conditions will continue to change rapidly, especially under lake effect snow bands. Residents should remain alert, monitor official updates, and be prepared for power outages and extended travel disruptions.”
Respect Snowplow Crews Working Around the Clock
County highway and public facilities crews are actively clearing roads and responding to hazardous conditions throughout the storm.
“Our plow operators are working long hours in extremely difficult and dangerous conditions to keep roads passable,” said Tim Card, Chautauqua County Director of Public Facilities. “We ask motorists to be patient, give plows plenty of room, and never attempt to pass them. Respecting plow crews helps keep everyone safe and allows them to do their jobs effectively.”
Motorists are reminded:
- Do not pass snowplows or follow too closely
- Expect reduced speeds and sudden stops
- Remember that plows may need to re-clear the same roads multiple times as snow continues to fall
Travel Strongly Discouraged
Residents should avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Those who must travel should:
- Clear all snow and ice from vehicles before driving
- Drive slowly and do not use cruise control
- Leave extra distance between vehicles
- Roads may be slick even when they appear wet
Additional Safety Guidance
- Shovel safely: dress in layers, stay hydrated, lift small amounts of snow, and take frequent breaks
- If stranded in a vehicle, reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Run the engine for 10 minutes per hour
- Open windows slightly for ventilation
- Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow
- Generator safety: https://www.dhses.ny.gov/generator
- Winter safety tips: https://www.dhses.ny.gov/winter
National Weather Service Update
The National Weather Service reports that a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 1:00 a.m. EST Friday for Chautauqua County.
- Snow totals: 1 to 3 feet possible
- Wind gusts: Up to 65 mph Monday, decreasing to around 45 mph Tuesday
- Impacts: Whiteout conditions and blowing snow are creating treacherous and potentially life-threatening travel conditions, with hazardous conditions expected to persist through the week
- Lake effect snow bands may shift frequently, producing locally higher snowfall totals
Safely Check on Neighbors, Especially the Elderly
County officials also encourage residents to check in on neighbors, particularly older adults, individuals with disabilities, and those living alone, while prioritizing personal safety.
- Use phone calls or text messages when possible
- Offer help with essential needs, such as food, medications, or snow removal
- Watch for signs of power outages or medical distress
- Do not attempt travel if conditions are unsafe — call for assistance if needed
Stay Informed
Residents should continue monitoring conditions through local media and official forecasts from the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov by searching by ZIP code.
Chautauqua County will continue to provide updates as conditions evolve online at chqgov.com and on social media: @ChautauquaCountyGovernment.