P-J photo Eric Tichy

The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a lake effect snow warning beginning 10 p.m. tonight and lasting through 6 p.m. Saturday.

The warning is for Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Wyoming and Southern Erie counties.

“Long duration heavy lake effect snow expected,” the weather service said. “Total snow accumulations of 1 to 2 feet with locally higher amounts possible in the most persistent bands. Snowfall rates may reach 1 to 2 inches per hour at times. Winds could gust as high as 45 to 50 mph resulting in significant blowing and drifting snow.”

The weather service said travel will likely become very “difficult to impossible” at certain times.

“The hazardous conditions will greatly impact the morning and evening commutes. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches.”