Buffalo Travel Ban Lifted: What it Means for Your 2025 Trip

Buffalo Travel Ban lifted: How will your 2025 trip be affected?

The lake-effect snow storm and its aftermath

Buffalo and Western New York faced a big lake-effect blizzard in late January 2025 that caused severe snowfall, transport restrictions, and a state of emergency. Several places got more than three feet of snow, mainly south of Buffalo and into the Southern Tier. Strong winds aggravated conditions, producing almost whiteout visibility and hazardous traffic. The storm affected the area for several days, causing extensive closures and disturbances.

Travel bans and restrictions lifted

Although Erie County's travel restrictions were eliminated as of January 18, 2025, it's crucial to remember that this was a fluid scenario. Conditions changed quickly during and after the storm; hence, official sources must be constantly watched for the most current information. For all of Erie County, especially south of Bailey Avenue in Buffalo, a travel advisory remained in effect as of January 18, 2025. Though commercial vehicle restrictions remained in place until later, the I-90 was reopened to passenger vehicles westbound from Exit 57 to Pennsylvania. Other roads, including Route 400 and Route 219, had brief closures.

Impact on Canadian travelers

Beyond the storm, Canadian visitors found their US-Canada border unexpectedly closed. This affects Buffalo's tourism, especially Niagara Falls, where 35–45% of visitors typically come from Canada. Visit Buffalo Niagara notes rising hotel occupancy from May to June 2024, but a return to pre-pandemic tourist levels is not projected until 2022 for leisure travel and 2024 for corporate travel. The ongoing border closure muddies the recovery schedule.

Road conditions and travel advisories

Residual snow and ice can make road conditions dangerous, particularly on secondary roads, even once traffic restrictions are lifted. Authorities advised drivers to use care, reduce unneeded travel, and monitor 511NY or contact 1-800-THRUWAY for the most recent road conditions. The New York State Thruway Authority offers real-time updates on road conditions, pavement state, and weather for several Thruway sections. These updates, as shown on January 18, 2025, highlighted varied conditions from wet roads and rain to snow and ice, particularly in the Buffalo area.

Looking ahead to your 2025 trip

Plan your 2025 Buffalo vacation with knowledge of possible weather conditions, particularly in the winter. Track National Weather Service weather forecasts to be ready for quick changes in conditions. Learn about tools for alerts, shelter information, and disaster readiness, including the Ready Erie app. Consider travel insurance and create flexible arrangements in case of unanticipated weather disturbances. Travel and tourism in the area are still constantly affected by the US-Canada border crisis.