MAYVILLE, NY — Chautauqua County’s Travel Advisory remains in effect through 7:00 a.m. Thursday, January 1, 2026, with blowing lake effect snow impacting travel in select areas of the county.
The advisory, issued earlier this week based on guidance from the New York State Watch Center and Office of Emergency Management, reflects the potential for difficult travel conditions in areas currently affected by lake effect snow, particularly along higher elevations and lake-effect-prone corridors.
This Travel Advisory is not a travel ban. Rather, it is a strong recommendation to use caution, avoid unnecessary travel where conditions are poor, and remain aware that conditions can change quickly.
“Lake effect snow is highly localized,” said Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. “One area may be experiencing snow-covered roads and reduced visibility, while just a few miles away conditions can be much better. We’re asking residents to stay informed, use good judgment, and adjust travel plans based on current conditions.”
Weather Update
The National Weather Service in Buffalo continues a Winter Storm Warning through 1:00 a.m. Friday, January 2, noting that lake effect snow downwind of Lake Erie may persist through the remainder of the week and potentially into the weekend. Meteorologists report that snow bands may shift north and south, producing brief periods of heavy snowfall in narrow areas, with lighter or no snowfall nearby.
Key points from the National Weather Service include:
Snowfall rates within lake effect bands may reach 2 to 3 inches per hour at times, particularly Wednesday into Wednesday night
Lake effect snow bands are expected to weaken overnight but may redevelop
Passing systems could bring additional snow outside the main lake effect areas
Conditions may vary significantly over short distances
Advisory Status
At this time, Chautauqua County plans to allow the Travel Advisory to expire at 7:00 a.m. Thursday, January 1, 2026, as scheduled. Officials remind residents that winter driving conditions may still exist beyond that time, especially in areas where lake effect snow continues, and caution should remain a priority.
Travel Safety Reminders
Residents who must travel are encouraged to:
Slow down and allow extra stopping distance
Be alert for sudden reductions in visibility
Expect changing road conditions, especially in lake effect areas
Carry a winter emergency kit
Respect Road Crews
County highway and public facilities crews continue working to maintain roadways as conditions allow. Motorists are asked to give snowplows ample space and avoid passing them, particularly in reduced visibility.
Stay Informed
Residents should continue to monitor local forecasts and road conditions, especially before traveling through lake effect-prone areas. Weather updates are available at weather.gov, and additional winter safety information can be found at www.dhses.ny.gov/winter.
Chautauqua County will continue to share updates as conditions evolve at chqgov.com and on social media @ChautauquaCountyGovernment.
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