Livestock dead after snow causes barn collapse in Chautauqua County

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- Five cows died and around 100 others were trapped after a barn collapsed from lake-effect snowfall Monday in Chautauqua County, a county spokesperson announced.

Officials said emergency crews responded to the scene in the Town of Arkwright and worked through deep snow accumulation to rescue the trapped livestock. One firefighter sustained non-life threatening injuries during the recovery efforts and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Eight miles away from Arkwright, in Cassadaga, snow total amounts reached to the highest in the county at 54.1 inches, according to the National Weather Service.

Authorities said the barn was severely damaged due to the weight of the snow.

Rescue efforts continued late into Monday while crews worked to remove snow and debris to save the remaining animals, officials said. Farmers in the area are asked to assess the conditions of their barns for signs of damage while heavy snowfall continues in the region.

No other injuries were reported.