MAYVILLE, NY – Chautauqua County officials are continuing a Travel Advisory for all of Chautauqua County as a prolonged lake effect snow event, strong winds, and blowing snow continue to impact the region.
This Travel Advisory, issued through 7:00 a.m. Thursday, January 1, 2026, is not a ban on travel. It is a strong recommendation that residents avoid unnecessary travel and consider delaying trips until conditions improve. Those who must travel should be prepared for rapidly changing and hazardous conditions.
“While this is not a travel ban, it is a serious advisory,” said Chautauqua 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.”
According to the National Weather Service, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through 1:00 a.m. Friday. Heavy snow, gusty winds, and blowing and drifting snow are expected to persist, with periods of whiteout conditions possible.
Rapidly Changing Conditions from Lake Effect Snow
Lake effect snow bands are expected to shift and oscillate throughout the week, creating dramatic differences in conditions over short distances.
Residents should be aware:
- Snowfall can be intense within narrow bands, while nearby areas may see lighter or dry conditions
- Blowing snow may significantly reduce visibility, even after snowfall rates decrease
- Road conditions can deteriorate rapidly and unexpectedly
- Visibility may drop from clear to near zero in minutes
Expected Impacts
- Snowfall totals: 1 to 3 feet possible in persistent lake effect areas
- Wind gusts: Up to 45 mph, creating blowing and drifting snow
- Travel impacts: Treacherous and potentially life-threatening conditions during whiteouts
“Even if conditions appear manageable at one moment, lake effect snow and blowing snow can quickly reduce visibility to near zero,” said Chautauqua County Sheriff James Quattrone. “We’re asking motorists to slow down, avoid unnecessary travel, and understand that conditions can change suddenly from mile to mile.”
Fire Safety and Carbon Monoxide Prevention
With heavy snow, blowing snow, and potential power disruptions continuing, officials stress that home heating and generator safety is just as important as travel safety during this storm.
“This is a prolonged event, and as people dig out and use alternate heat sources, fire safety is critical,” said Noel Guttman, Director of Emergency Services. “Make sure furnace and dryer vents remain clear of snow, operate generators outdoors and far away from buildings, and never use grills or fuel-burning devices inside. These precautions help prevent fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.”
Residents are also reminded to ensure carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly, clear snow away from exterior vents and exhaust pipes, and safely check on neighbors who may need assistance managing heat.
Respect Snowplow Crews Working in Hazardous Conditions
County highway and public facilities crews are working around the clock to keep roads passable.
“Blowing snow means roads may need to be cleared repeatedly, sometimes shortly after being plowed,” said Tim Card, Director of Public Facilities. “We ask motorists to slow down, give plows plenty of room, and never attempt to pass them.”
Motorists are reminded:
- Do not pass snowplows or follow too closely
- Expect sudden reductions in visibility
- Roads may appear clear but quickly become snow-covered or icy
Travel Safety Reminders
If travel is necessary:
- Slow down and increase following distance
- Avoid cruise control
- Be prepared for sudden whiteout conditions
- Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle
Check on Neighbors — Safely
County officials encourage residents to safely check on neighbors, particularly older adults, individuals with disabilities, and those living alone.
“Severe winter weather can be especially difficult for older adults and those living alone,” said Dana Corwin, Director of Chautauqua County’s Office for Aging Services. “A quick phone call or text to check in can make a big difference, while still keeping yourself safe by avoiding unnecessary travel.”
Stay Informed
Residents should continue to monitor official forecasts and updates from the National Weather Service by searching their ZIP code at weather.gov.
Chautauqua County will continue to share updates as conditions evolve at chqgov.com and on social media @ChautauquaCountyGovernment.
last updated: 12/30/2025 @ 9:00 AM
