A weather phenomenon known as “lake effect” snowfall has paralyzed parts of New York state.
Nearly two feet of snow overnight in parts of west and north New York, Along the eastern end of Lake Erie, there are more warnings.
Schools and train stations in Buffalo were closed, and many flights at the city’s airport were canceled.
The NFL said it would move the Buffalo Bills’ home game against the Cleveland Browns to Detroit.
Orchard Park, where the teams played, had more than two feet (61 centimeters) of snow on Friday morning.
‘Lake Effect Snow’ Clouds Across Lake Erie
New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in 11 counties.
Driving was banned in Erie County as thunderstorms of snow — known as “thundersnow” — rolled into Buffalo.
Downtown Buffalo was nearly deserted.Photo: Associated Press
In Buffalo, a woman struggles to clear snow from her car.Photo: Associated Press
The heaviest snowfall is expected to continue into Friday night, with more snowfall Saturday and Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service, about 4.5 feet (1.4 meters) of air could accumulate in or near Buffalo.
Lake-effect snow forms when dry, frozen air absorbs moisture and heat as it moves along warm lake water, according to NOAA.
It causes some of the lake’s water to evaporate into the air, making it warmer and wetter.
As the air cools and moves away from the lake, it dumps all the moisture on the ground. When it’s cold enough, it can lead to heavy snowfall.