BUFFALO, N.Y. — A very strong area of low pressure will track just to the north of Western New York on Saturday, and as a result, damaging winds are likely for much of the area Saturday afternoon and evening.
A High Wind Warning has expired for Erie, Chautauqua, Niagara, Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming counties. The warning went into effect Saturday afternoon and ended shortly before 11 p.m. Western New Yorkers should expect sustained winds of 35 to 45 mph with wind gusts up to 65 to 70 mph.
For Allegany and Cattaraugus counties, the High Wind Warning will go into effect at 3 p.m. Saturday and continue until 11 p.m. Winds in these counties will be strong but not nearly as intense as areas along the lake and further north. Winds will be between 25 to 35 mph and gusts could reach up to 60 mph.
Due to rising water levels on this side of Lake Erie, and the wind driving the water onshore, a Lakeshore Flood Warning has been issued as well. The flood warning is currently in effect until 1 a.m. Sunday. Lakeshore flooding is possible due to rapidly increasing water levels. Lake Erie may rise to 11 feet or 3 feet above flood stage.
A Wind Advisory is also in effect for McKean and Potter counties in Pennsylvania. The warning went into effect Saturday afternoon and will continue until 1 a.m. Sunday. Winds of 15 to 25 mph are expected with gusts up to 55 mph.
The strongest winds are expected Saturday afternoon into Saturday evening from about 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Winds should taper off around 10 p.m. but gusts around 40 mph are still likely overnight.
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