A plow truck is pictured on Maple Avenue, Cassadaga. The village was dealing with high winds but not a lot of new snow before the weather warning which took effect at 1 p.m. Photo by Gregory Bacon

Chautauqua County officials are urging residents to avoid travel as a major winter storm impacts Chautauqua County, bringing heavy snowfall, strong winds, and rapidly deteriorating road conditions.

A travel advisory has been issued for all of Chautauqua County through 7 a.m. Thursday.

According to the National Weather Service, the Winter Storm Severity Index has reached the “Major” category, signaling dangerous to impossible travel conditions, widespread disruptions, and potential impacts to critical infrastructure.

Snow is actively falling across the county, with 18 to 24 inches of accumulation expected. Snowfall rates are reaching 1 to 2 inches per hour, with bursts of up to 3 inches per hour in intense lake effect snow bands. Whiteout conditions are occurring, with visibility reduced to near zero at times due to blowing and drifting snow.

“Conditions are deteriorating quickly, and travel is becoming increasingly dangerous,” said Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. “If you do not need to be on the roads, please stay home. Staying off the roads helps protect you and allows plow crews, law enforcement, and emergency responders to operate safely.”

“Whiteout conditions can develop in minutes, even on roads that were recently plowed,” said Chautauqua County Sheriff James Quattrone. “We are asking motorists to slow down, increase following distance, and give snowplows and emergency vehicles the space they need to do their jobs.”

Noel Guttman, Chautauqua County Director of Emergency Services, added, “This storm is ongoing and long-lasting. Conditions will continue to change rapidly, especially under lake effect snow bands. Residents should remain alert, monitor official updates, and be prepared for power outages and extended travel disruptions.”

County highway and public facilities crews are actively clearing roads and responding to hazardous conditions throughout the storm.

“Our plow operators are working long hours in extremely difficult and dangerous conditions to keep roads passable,” said Tim Card, Chautauqua County Director of Public Facilities. “We ask motorists to be patient, give plows plenty of room, and never attempt to pass them. Respecting plow crews helps keep everyone safe and allows them to do their jobs effectively.”

Motorists are reminded:

— Do not pass snowplows or follow too closely.

— Expect reduced speeds and sudden stops.

— Remember that plows may need to re-clear the same roads multiple times as snow continues to fall

Residents should avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Those who must travel should:

— Clear all snow and ice from vehicles before driving

— Drive slowly and do not use cruise control

— Leave extra distance between vehicles