Active AlertsSouthern Erie

What: Significant lakeshore flooding expected.
Where: Niagara, Erie, and Chautauqua counties.
When: Until 10 PM EST this evening.
Impacts: The rapid rise in water levels will result in lakeshore flooding along the Lake Erie and Upper Niagara River shores. Along the Lake Erie shore, flooding is likely along Route 5 in Hamburg, Buffalo Harbor and Canalside, Dunkirk Harbor, and other flood prone locations. Along the Upper Niagara River, flooding is likely to affect Grand Island and Cayuga Island. Very high wave action will also result in significant shoreline erosion.

A Lakeshore Flood Warning means lakeshore flooding is occurring, is imminent, or is expected to occur. For your safety, stay off breakwaters, piers, rock outcroppings and beaches! Waves are often larger than they appear and can easily wash you away. Expect significant beach erosion and debris, local road closures and extremely dangerous boating conditions.

What: Southwest winds 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 75 mph expected. The strongest wind gusts will be along the Lake Erie shoreline and near Downtown Buffalo.
Where: Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Monroe, Genesee, Wyoming, and Chautauqua Counties.
When: Until 1 AM EST Tuesday.
Impacts: Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Shallow rooted trees in a saturated ground will be more susceptible to falling. Travel will be extremely difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.
Additional Details: Wind gusts in excess of 60 mph have already been observed this morning. Winds will continue to increase through early Monday afternoon.

Avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.

What: Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible.
Where: A portion of western New York, including the following counties, Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Genesee, Niagara, Northern Erie, Orleans, Southern Erie and Wyoming.
When: Through this afternoon.
Impacts: Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. The greatest threat for flooding will be along the Buffalo area creeks and rivers. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas.
Additional Details: - Rainfall has averaged between 0.50-1.5" in the watch area. Additional rainfall will average a quarter to a third of an inch. Runoff will continue this morning, but will sharply slow as colder temperatures move into the area. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.