Buffalo city officials have filed their winter snow plan for the 2025-26 season.

The city is hoping pre-weather event messaging could make a difference in keeping people out of the elements, including notifications to residents through the BuFFALERT text system.

“During extreme weather events, when there is advance warning, the messaging delivered to the public will include strong specific language that emphasizes the potential life-threatening consequences of not following the city’s warnings to stay home, shelter in place or stay off the roads,” the plan said.

There is also a push for coordinated messaging with Erie County and interpretive services for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

“The communication plan will ensure that [everyone] can have access to critical updates, emergency instructions, and safety guidelines during extreme weather events,” the winter plan said.

Residents are encouraged to sign up for the BUFFALERT system by texting your zip code to 38276. 

Acting Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon’s latest budget proposal includes more than $800,000 to purchase new snowplows.