Several rounds of showers and thunderstorms are expected to move across western and central New York on Wednesday, with the greatest risk for severe weather developing late in the day and continuing into the evening, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters say the severe weather threat will peak from late afternoon through the evening, with some storms potentially lingering into the overnight hours as a cold front moves across the state.
Damaging winds and hail are the primary concerns, though an isolated tornado or two cannot be ruled out.
Areas that could be affected include Buffalo, Rochester, Jamestown, Geneva, Oswego and surrounding communities across western New York, the Finger Lakes and parts of central New York.
Damaging winds, hail are main threats
Some storms
could become severe, producing damaging wind gusts and large hail, the Weather Service said. An isolated tornado or two also remains possible. Storms may bring periods of heavy rainfall, creating localized flooding, ponding on roads and isolated flash flooding, particularly in areas with poor drainage.
Here's what to expect where you live
Buffalo, Rochester and Western New York
The Buffalo and Rochester metro areas, along with much of Western New York and the Finger Lakes, could see several rounds of thunderstorms Wednesday. The strongest storms are most likely from late afternoon through the evening. Damaging winds and hail are the primary hazards. Heavy rain could also cause localized flooding, while an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out.
Southern Tier
Communities including Jamestown and surrounding areas could see strong to severe thunderstorms Wednesday afternoon and evening. Storms could produce damaging winds, hail and heavy downpours, which could lead to localized flooding and ponding on roadways.
Central New York and the eastern Lake Ontario region
Areas including Oswego and nearby communities could see thunderstorms continue into the evening and overnight hours as the storm system moves east. Damaging winds, hail and heavy rain are the primary concerns, though an isolated tornado remains possible.
What residents should know
Residents should closely monitor forecasts and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions Wednesday afternoon and evening.
Those in areas affected by thunderstorms should be prepared to move indoors quickly if a warning is issued.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: When will storms hit New York? Here's when severe weather is expected Wednesday
