A deadly weekend storm has raised questions over preparedness, response efforts, and how to handle extreme weather events in the future.

The blizzard that hit Buffalo over the weekend has left almost 40 people dead, making it the region’s deadliest storm in decades. With temperatures plummeting and roads blocked by snowdrifts, many residents are only now regaining warmth and power after enduring days without heat. The storm, which caught even seasoned winter residents off guard, has prompted officials to re-examine how such extreme weather can be better managed in the future.

Despite preparations, including emergency declarations and warnings, the sheer intensity of the blizzard – which featured hurricane-force winds and over four feet of snow – paralysed the region. Officials had positioned crews and equipment in advance, but the storm’s ferocity made it nearly impossible to respond effectively, particularly to 911 calls.

A contentious exchange between local leaders followed, with Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz criticising snow removal efforts in Buffalo, the region’s largest city. He expressed frustration over the delayed response, saying, “The city, unfortunately, is always the last one to open. It’s embarrassing.”

Many victims of the storm were found outside, in snow-covered cars, or in homes without power. Some were reportedly trying to clear snow when they collapsed, while others died awaiting help during medical emergencies. The storm’s arrival just before the holiday weekend made matters worse, as people felt compelled to venture out despite worsening conditions.

Meteorologists had been tracking the storm for days. On December 19, the National Weather Service issued warnings of a powerful storm, and by December 21, forecasters were calling it a “once-in-a-generation” event. The storm was expected to bring heavy snow, high winds, and dangerous travel conditions, and officials swiftly declared a state of emergency, urging residents to stay off the roads.

Despite these warnings, many continued to drive, including Sean Reisch, a 41-year-old salesman, who ventured out for groceries but soon found himself trapped in whiteout conditions. He barely made it home after battling snowdrifts and freezing winds.

In a region accustomed to heavy snow, the blizzard revealed how unprepared even the most winter-savvy residents were. Climate change is intensifying extreme weather events, and experts worry that these types of storms will continue to exceed previous experiences, making it harder for people to react appropriately.

Some local residents criticised the recommendation to “stock up” on essentials before the storm, particularly those who live in poverty and cannot afford to prepare. Others questioned whether Buffalo had sufficient resources and equipment to manage such extreme weather, pointing to the involvement of volunteers and external agencies in snow-clearing efforts.

By the time emergency services were called into action, many of the city’s fire trucks, police vehicles, and plows were stuck in the snow. The National Guard was deployed to help, but not until Saturday, when nearly every emergency vehicle in Buffalo was immobilised. By Tuesday, more than 500 National Guard members were stationed in western New York.

Political tensions followed as Poloncarz and Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown exchanged criticisms, each blaming the other for the slow response. As for the future, officials are now calling for better equipment and preparedness to face such extreme weather events head-on, with Sheriff John Garcia saying, “We have to get better.”

Experts suggest that learning from past storms and asking survivors what more could have been done will be key to improving future disaster responses.