Traffic is pictured on Route 60 in Fredonia on Friday afternoon.

Western New York’s first snow event of the season will continue to impact the region through Monday.

Gov. Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to prepare as a significant lake effect snow moves into communities east of Lakes Erie and Ontario with the potential for multiple feet of snow. Lake Effect Snow Warnings for a long duration event are now in effect through Monday for portions of Western New York, Central New York and the North Country. The heaviest snowfall is forecast to occur Friday evening through Saturday morning, particularly in the higher elevations in the Western New York and North Country Regions, with an additional period of heavy snow possible on Sunday.

“As lake effect snow moves into parts of Western New York, Central New York and the North Country, we are monitoring the situation closely and mobilizing resources to respond,” Governor Hochul said. “Alongside our partners in local government, we are taking every step necessary to protect New Yorkers and keep our communities safe.”

Affected regions should expect snowfall rates of two to four inches per hour. Peak snowfall amounts of three to four feet are expected along Lake Erie, especially western Chautauqua and southern Erie Counties. Snow is forecast to fall steadily all weekend, including before, during and after the Bills game on Sunday.

Due to the expected inclement weather, the City of Dunkirk’s Christmas on Central Small Business Saturday Holiday Market has been canceled.

The tree lighting ceremony will be moved to next Friday, Dec, 6, during the Dunkirk Holiday Parade.

Hazardous to impossible travel conditions are expected on Friday through Monday due to snow covered roads and reduced visibilities. Wind gusts will likely cause blowing and drifting snow, and isolated power outages. Snow will accumulate rapidly in persistent snow bands, and visibility will be drastically reduced with near whiteout conditions.

Beginning at 3 p.m. Friday, an empty and tandem commercial vehicle ban will be in effect on I-86 from the Pennsylvania state line to I-390 and on State Route 219 from the Pennsylvania state line to I-90.

Residents who must travel, should make sure their vehicle is stocked with survival gear like blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods and brightly colored cloth to use as a distress flag.

The leading cause of death and injuries during winter storms is transportation accidents. Before getting behind the wheel, make sure that your vehicle is clear of ice and snow; good vision is key to good driving. Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars. Be extra alert and remember that snowdrifts can hide smaller children. Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.

It is important for motorists on all roads to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 mph, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit.