Western New York (WNY) residents are urged to stay alert as a significant weather event looms on the horizon. A formidable line of thunderstorms, bolstered by a cold front surging from the Central Great Lakes area, is en route to WNY and expected to make its presence felt tonight.
Weather experts anticipate the thunderstorms’ arrival window to be between 8:00 PM and midnight, as the line sweeps across the region from west to east. As a precautionary measure, a severe thunderstorm watch has been issued, encompassing all of WNY and remaining in effect until 3:00 AM Friday morning.
Around 9:00 to 10:00 PM, meteorologists predict the development of showers and thunderstorms near Rochester, with the line’s trajectory shifting eastward into Central New York after midnight. These storms could potentially bring about locally heavy downpours, hail, and gusty winds reaching approximately 60 mph, accompanied by dazzling cloud-to-ground lightning.
Despite the severe nature of the anticipated weather, authorities have assured the public that the thunderstorms will be swift-moving, thus minimizing the likelihood of localized flooding. However, precipitation amounts are still expected to range from 1/4″ to as much as an inch throughout the evening.
As the main storm system driving this weather pattern continues its eastward drift into Friday, there exists a possibility of another shower or isolated thunderstorm being sparked by a smaller energy component associated with the system.
Residents are advised to take necessary precautions by securing outdoor objects, including patio umbrellas and loose items, in preparation for the likelihood of locally strong thunderstorms impacting the Rochester area. For real-time weather updates, individuals can conveniently access the 13WHAM Weather Authority directly on their cell phones.