Why You Should Keep Your Snowplow on a Little Longer in WNY
As winter drags into March, many Western New Yorkers start thinking about removing their snowplows. But if you’ve lived here long enough, you know one thing for sure—Mother Nature isn’t done with us yet.
Buffalo’s weather is unpredictable, and taking your plow off too soon could leave you unprepared for a late-season snowstorm. Here’s why it’s best to keep your plow on a little longer.
1. March & April Snowstorms Are Common
Spring may be around the corner, but winter isn’t finished just yet. Buffalo and the surrounding areas have seen heavy snowstorms as late as April. Some examples:
- April 20, 2022: Over a foot of snow fell across WNY, catching many off guard.
- March 2017: A blizzard dumped over 20 inches of snow in some areas.
- April 1996: Nearly 25 inches of snow shut down parts of the region!
Keeping your plow on ensures you’re not scrambling to reattach it when the next surprise storm hits.
2. Lake Effect Snow Doesn’t Care About the Calendar
The Great Lakes play a huge role in Buffalo’s weather, and they don’t warm up instantly when March rolls around. As long as cold air moves over Lake Erie, lake-effect snow remains a possibility.
Even if the main roads stay clear, side streets, driveways, and parking lots can still need plowing well into April.
3. Unexpected Weather Swings
WNY is known for wild temperature swings—60 degrees one day, snowstorm the next. Just because it feels like spring doesn’t mean winter is over.
Rather than risk getting caught unprepared, keeping your plow mounted for a few more weeks is the safer move.
4. Avoid the Hassle of Reattaching
Taking your plow off only to put it back on a few days later is a headache. If there’s even a slight chance you’ll need it, it’s better to leave it on and save yourself the extra work.
5. More Demand for Late-Season Plowing
Not everyone plans ahead. Many businesses, property managers, and homeowners might assume winter is over—until a big storm proves them wrong. If you offer plowing services, keeping your plow on could mean extra business when others are unprepared.
When Should You Finally Take It Off?
The best time to remove your plow depends on the forecast. Generally, mid-to-late April is a safer bet. Keep an eye on long-term weather predictions and consider removing your plow once daytime temperatures consistently stay above freezing and snow chances drop to near zero.
Need Snowplow Service or Repairs?
Before you store your plow for the season, make sure it’s in top condition! General Welding & Fabricating services all makes and models of snowplows and carries BOSS Snowplow products, parts, and accessories.
📍 991 Maple Road, Elma, NY – 716-652-0033
📩 info@GWFab.com
📲 gwfab.com
“You dream it, we build or repair it!”
Would you like me to add storage tips or a checklist for end-of-season maintenance? 🚜❄️