Winter Storm Warning Announced With 18 Inches of Snow, 40 mph Winds Hitting Today

The National Weather Service issued a number of winter weather warnings for the United States this week as strong winter storms bring heavy snow and dangerous winds across portions of the country.

"Cold west/northwesterly flow over the Great Lakes will generate snow showers downwind of the lakes for the next several days. Between 6-12 inches are probable for most areas with isolated higher amounts possible, especially downwind of Lake Ontario where heavier snowfall is expected today," the NWS said. "Meanwhile, the same frigid Arctic airmass will remain in place from the Midwest to the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic today. Highs in the teens and 20s will represent temperatures that are 15-25 degrees below average."

New York Bracing for More Heavy Snow, Dangerous Winds

The Great Lakes region has already been hit with heavy snowfall this winter, but even more is expected to strike with cities East of Lakes Erie and Ontario bracing for up to 18 (or more) inches of snow on Tuesday, Jan. 20 alone.

"Off Lake Erie, lake snows will oscillate between the Buffalo Southtowns and the Boston Hills. Off Lake Ontario, lake snows will settle from the Watertown area to the Tug Hill tonight, where they will remain Tuesday. Gusty winds will also produce significant blowing/drifting snow," the NWS Buffalo office said.

Off Lake Erie, lake snows will oscillate between the Buffalo Southtowns and the Boston Hills. Off Lake Ontario, lake snows will settle from the Watertown area to the Tug Hill tonight, where they will remain Tuesday. Gusty winds will also produce significant blowing/drifting snow. pic.twitter.com/HH4g9pHSqc

— NWS Buffalo (@NWSBUFFALO) January 20, 2026

Men's Journal's guide to surviving winter is a must for those in the Great Lakes region where snowfall totals are measured in feet.

'Life-Threatening' Travel Conditions Hitting

The National Weather Service warned of life-threatening travel conditions as the heavy snow and strong winds create whiteout conditions.

"Whiteout conditions are expected and will make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Travel will be difficult. The hazardous conditions will impact the morning and evening commutes," it said.

Those looking to take advantage of the recent snowfall with some outdoor trekking should be wary of how cold weather impacts a workout. Men's Journal has a fully-loaded arsenal of tips on how to prepare efficiently before a cold-weather workout.

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