As Western New York endures a prolonged stretch of severe winter weather, WNY Bus Co. President Igor Finkelshtein has detailed the company's focused response to ensure student safety. The region has faced persistent subfreezing temperatures, heavy wind gusts, and repeated lake-effect snow events over recent weeks, with nighttime lows routinely dropping well below freezing. Snowfall bands have produced wind-driven snow and periods of reduced visibility, creating hazardous conditions for drivers and commuters. Local forecasts indicate additional snow showers, blowing snow, and cold conditions through the coming week, underscoring ongoing challenges for transportation services.
"These past few weeks have reminded all of us why winter in Western New York demands respect," said Finkelshtein. "Our drivers and support teams have continued working under some of the toughest conditions: cold, snow, and wind that impact visibility and surface traction. At WNY Bus Co., our first priority is always safety." The company serves schools throughout Western New York, and its operational reliability during extreme weather is critical for maintaining educational continuity and family routines.
The specific weather challenges have included frequent lake-effect snow with periodic accumulations requiring careful route adjustments, strong winds and blowing snow creating low visibility and drifting, and prolonged cold periods with temperatures well below seasonal averages. In response, WNY Bus Co. has implemented targeted safety measures. These include enhanced winter driver refresher sessions focusing on winter driving techniques and safety protocols, more frequent fleet winter checks covering tires, braking systems, heaters, and emergency equipment, and real-time route monitoring with communication to school transportation departments and parents. The company coordinates closely with districts and communicates transparently with families, adapting schedules as needed based on conditions.
"I know winter here can be unpredictable," Finkelshtein added. "But our team has continued to rise to the challenge. We want families to know we never take short cuts: we always prioritize student safety, even when that means adjusting timing or making operational calls no one sees behind the scenes." This approach is particularly important given the company's role in the community, where trust and reliability are paramount during hazardous conditions. For more information about the company's services and commitment, visit https://www.wnybusco.com.
While forecasts show the possibility of continued snow events and wind in the near term, there are indications of reducing severity as the season progresses. WNY Bus Co. remains prepared to adapt and is actively planning next steps as spring approaches. "We're committed to doing our part," said Finkelshtein. "This isn't just about getting from point A to point B in winter, it's about trust. And we work every day to earn that trust." The company's proactive measures during this severe weather period highlight the broader importance of infrastructure and service resilience in regions prone to extreme seasonal conditions, ensuring that essential services like student transportation continue safely despite environmental challenges.
