This detailed marine weather forecast provides information on current and expected weather conditions for several areas in the Great Lakes region, including Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. The forecast covers wind speed and direction, the likelihood of precipitation (snow and rain), wave height, and occasional mentions of water temperature.
The Upper Niagara River and Buffalo Harbor area can expect west to southwest winds ranging from 10 to 25 knots throughout the weekend, with chances of snow showers. The water temperature off Buffalo is specifically noted as being 32 degrees. This is crucial information for boaters and anyone engaging in activities on or near the water.
The Lower Niagara River area will experience similar wind conditions with speeds between 10 and 25 knots and a partly sunny Saturday followed by mostly cloudy conditions for the remainder of the forecast period. There is a chance of rain and snow showers starting Monday.
The area from Buffalo to Ripley along Lake Erie is currently mostly ice-covered. Southwest winds are predicted at 15 to 25 knots on Saturday, with a possibility of snow showers throughout the weekend. Because of the ice cover, wave height forecasts are omitted for this region. Knowing whether a lake is frozen is critical for safety and recreational planning.
Along Lake Ontario, from Niagara River to Hamlin Beach, a Small Craft Advisory is in effect until 1 AM EST Saturday. West to southwest winds will prevail, ranging from 15 to 25 knots. Wave heights are expected to reach 3 to 6 feet, occasionally reaching 7 feet on Saturday, and even higher on Saturday night. This advisory indicates potentially hazardous conditions for small watercraft.
From Hamlin Beach to Mexico Bay along Lake Ontario, including Irondequoit Bay, another Small Craft Advisory is issued until 1 AM EST Saturday. Similar wind and wave conditions are anticipated as the previous Lake Ontario zone, with northwest to southwest winds of 15-25 knots and waves potentially reaching up to 8 feet. Lake effect snow is also possible. The water temperature off Rochester is reported to be 34 degrees. This information, coupled with the wave heights, paints a picture of challenging conditions on the lake.
Finally, the Mexico Bay to the Saint Lawrence River zone along Lake Ontario will see lighter winds, generally less than 15 knots. While a chance of snow and rain showers exists throughout the forecast period, wave heights are expected to remain at or below 1 foot. This area is comparatively calmer than other parts of Lake Ontario mentioned in the forecast.
