The News, Eats & Events Shaping Western New York

A powerful snowstorm threatens Thanksgiving travel across the Great Lakes region, beginning Wednesday and lasting through Black Friday.

Blizzard Warnings are in effect for western Minnesota and northern South Dakota, with heavy snow and fierce winds set to intensify as the system moves east.

Marquette, Michigan faces the risk of wind gusts up to 65 kph and up to 16 centimeters of snow, creating dangerous whiteout conditions through Thursday.

Buffalo, NY and Cleveland, OH can expect strong winds, showers, and lake-effect snow, with travel likely to be slippery and visibility low.

Weather experts link increasingly intense storms to climate change, noting a significant rise in U.S. November temperatures.

Travelers are urged to monitor updates, postpone nonessential trips, and prepare for volatile conditions, as improvements aren’t expected until the weekend.

As Western New York readies for winter, anticipation grows for stunning snowscapes and cherished seasonal traditions.

But behind the scenes, snowplow operators stand on the front lines, tirelessly keeping roads clear through long, difficult hours.

Many leave home before dawn, braving hazardous conditions to safeguard local travel.

Their role has grown more challenging lately, highlighted by December 2024’s fierce snowstorm, when more than 450 DOT employees worked nonstop across Western New York.

Staff shortages have stretched municipal crews thin, increasing demands and adding stress to an already tough job.

Unpredictable weather, from sudden blizzards to unusually warm spells, complicates both response and planning for snow removal businesses.

Tragedy struck during the same storm when two Erie County residents died of heart attacks shoveling snow, a stark reminder of winter’s risks for all.

Every gesture of appreciation for these essential workers helps brighten cold, demanding days.

Amazon has launched its first same-day delivery center in upstate New York, bringing a new level of speed and convenience to Western New York communities.

The 201,000-square-foot facility on Vision Parkway in Pembroke is set to accelerate deliveries for customers across Buffalo, Rochester, and eight neighboring counties, including Erie, Niagara, Genesee, and Monroe.

By uniting fulfillment, sorting, and delivery in one location, the site streamlines operations and shortens wait times for shoppers.

This expansion is also a local jobs boost, with over 100 full- and part-time positions expected.

Town and company leaders highlight both the strategic location and the long-term investment, marking it as a milestone for the region.

The opening comes just before the holiday season surge, ensuring faster packages for area residents and strengthening Amazon’s nationwide delivery network.

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