As the Buffalo Bills prepared to face the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday night, Highmark Stadium was blanketed in a thick layer of snow due to severe weather impacting the New York region. Fans diligently worked to clear snow from the stands, walkways, and field in anticipation of the 8:20 p.m. ET kickoff.
The Bills acknowledged the challenging conditions on X, posting "Ready for football" despite the ongoing snow removal efforts.
Lake-effect snow significantly impacted western New York, particularly south of Buffalo, with accumulations reaching up to three feet, as reported by Fox Weather. The storm's reach extended across parts of Ohio and into Erie County, Pennsylvania, leading to closures on sections of Interstate 90. The New York State Department of Transportation worked tirelessly to clear roads surrounding Highmark Stadium, deploying extra plows and tow trucks to maintain traffic flow. They also shared updates and words of encouragement for the Bills on their X account.
Forecasts predict further snowfall in western and northern New York, with the potential for an additional one to two feet and two to three feet, respectively, according to Governor Kathy Hochul's office. Despite the weather challenges, the game proceeded as scheduled, showcasing the dedication of both fans and stadium personnel.
A Buffalo Bills fan holds a piece of snow before the game against the San Francisco 49ers in Orchard Park, N.Y., Dec. 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
A San Francisco 49ers fan stands among snow-covered seats before the game against the Buffalo Bills in Orchard Park, N.Y., Dec. 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)
A Buffalo Bills fan shovels snow from seats before the game against the San Francisco 49ers in Orchard Park, N.Y., Dec. 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)
Workers clear snow at Highmark Stadium in preparation for the game between the Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers in Orchard Park, N.Y., Dec. 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
Workers clear snow from the seats at Highmark Stadium in preparation for the game between the Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers in Orchard Park, N.Y., Dec. 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
