Chautauqua County officials are advising residents to limit travel during the ongoing winter storm, which is expected to continue through Monday evening. The storm will bring heavy snow, icy roads, and hazardous conditions across the County.
The National Weather Service in Buffalo maintains the Winter Storm Warning for Chautauqua County through 7 PM Monday, forecasting total snowfall of 12 to 18 inches, with the highest amounts expected in higher terrain in the Southern Tier.
Travel Advisory
Chautauqua County is issuing a Travel Advisory discouraging all non-essential travel until Tuesday, January 27 at 5:00 a.m. Residents are encouraged to stay home if possible and only travel if absolutely necessary.
Inclement Weather Policy – Monday, January 26
As part of this advisory, County offices will implement the Inclement Weather Policy. Operations may vary by department: some offices may be closed to in-person services or operating remotely, while several in-person services, including snow removal, emergency medical services, and public safety operations, will continue. Residents should call ahead before visiting any County facility and confirm department hours and service availability.
❄️ Weather Impacts
Travel will be very difficult, with snow-covered roads and reduced visibility
Monday morning and evening commutes will be especially challenging
Strong snowfall rates may quickly deteriorate road conditions
Sheriff James Quattrone:
“We know travel may be necessary for some, but conditions will be challenging. Use good judgment, check the latest weather and road forecasts before heading out, drive cautiously, allow extra time, and stay alert for snow plows and emergency vehicles. If you can postpone trips until conditions improve, please do so.”
County Executive PJ Wendel:
“We know Western New Yorkers are tough and used to winter weather, but with heavy snow, icy roads, and limited visibility expected, we are issuing this Travel Advisory and asking residents to limit travel whenever possible. At the same time, we are reducing unnecessary travel in County operations to protect both our employees and the public.”
🛷 Highway & Public Facilities
Residents are reminded to give plow drivers room to work and exercise caution when driving near snow removal operations. These crews are operating in difficult conditions to keep roadways clear and safe.
Tim Card, Director of Public Facilities:
“Our highway crews are out around the clock clearing snow and treating roads to keep our communities moving safely. Snow plow drivers face challenging conditions, but their dedication ensures that critical routes remain accessible for emergency responders and residents who must travel.”
🚨 Emergency Services Guidance
Chautauqua County Emergency Services offers these reminders to stay safe during the storm:
Avoid unnecessary travel; road conditions are hazardous.
If travel is necessary, drive slowly, allow extra time, and keep emergency supplies in your vehicle.
Dress in layers and limit time outdoors to prevent cold-related injuries.
Use safe heating practices, and never operate generators, grills, or fuel-burning devices indoors.
Check on elderly neighbors, individuals with disabilities, and anyone who may need assistance.
Noel Guttman, Director of Emergency Services:
“Our goal is to keep everyone safe during this storm. Taking simple precautions like limiting travel, dressing appropriately, and checking on neighbors can prevent injuries and help emergency responders focus on the most critical situations.”
⚠️ County Coordination & Safety
Chautauqua County Government is coordinating response efforts across departments to ensure public safety. Residents are encouraged to monitor official channels for real-time updates:
Website: www.chqgov.com
Facebook: Chautauqua County Government
📝 Practical Safety Tips
Travel:
Delay travel if possible; roads may be snow-covered with low visibility
If travel is necessary: drive slowly, leave extra distance, avoid sudden braking, watch for hills, turns, snow plows, and emergency vehicles
Home Preparedness:
Keep flashlights, batteries, blankets, water, and fully charged devices available
Prepare for possible power outages
Avoid downed power lines and report them
Heating & Power Safety:
Use space heaters carefully and keep them away from flammable materials
Never operate generators, grills, or propane heaters indoors
Use flashlights instead of candles during outages
Pets:
Bring animals indoors when possible
Provide extra food, water, and warm, dry shelter
Check on Neighbors:
Especially elderly or vulnerable residents
Shoveling Snow:
Take frequent breaks, avoid overexertion, use proper lifting techniques, and push snow when possible instead of lifting
Updates will be posted throughout the storm on the County’s website and social media channels. Residents are encouraged to monitor these sources for the latest information.
Last updated: 2:00 PM – January 25, 2026