By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – Buffalo is escaping the blizzard that is battering the East Coast.
New York City is bearing the brunt of the snow. But more than a foot has fallen across parts of the Hudson Valley. The blowing, drifting snow forced the closure of a stretch of I-84 in Dutchess County. State police say roads remain snow-covered and slick with gusty winds creating blizzard conditions in spots.
In Buffalo, it will be cloudy and blustery with highs in the lower 20s. Snow showers will give way to just flurries.
The only local complication from the massive storm is its effect on airline schedules at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. Both arriving and departing flights between BNIA and airports in New York City, Boston and Philadelphia are either canceled or delayed. Travelers are urged to check with their air carriers in advance.
The storm forced the New England Patriots to remain in Western New York overnight after they beat the Bills 34-3 at Ralph Wilson Stadium. The team was bussed to Rochester because all hotels in Buffalo were filled with fans attending the world juniors hockey tournament.