Albany, NY – A gray winter morning has settled over the Capital Region as light snow continues to fall from Albany to Troy, coating roads, windshields, and sidewalks. While snowfall is expected to ease later today, changing conditions could create new hazards just as many residents and visitors plan holiday travel.
Snow Continues Early, Roads Remain Slick
Light snow persists through the morning hours, with up to two inches expected before tapering off. Temperatures remain stuck in the upper 20s, preventing melting and keeping untreated roads slippery. Travel is especially hazardous on bridges, overpasses, and elevated roadways, which freeze faster than surrounding pavement.
Major corridors including I-87, I-90, and Route 7 are seeing slow traffic as drivers navigate slick conditions. Headlights reflect off wet, snow-covered pavement, and visibility may briefly drop during heavier bursts of snow.
Winter Storm Warning Remains in Effect
According to the National Weather Service, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through early afternoon. Snowfall is expected to weaken after daybreak, transitioning to scattered flurries by midday.
Even as snow tapers, icy patches will linger on roads and walkways. Officials warn that improved visibility does not mean safer driving conditions, especially on shaded streets and secondary roads.
Travel Impacts Across the Region
Travel remains slow across the Capital District, Mohawk Valley, and nearby foothills. Road crews are actively treating primary routes, but conditions can vary widely over short distances.
Drivers are urged to:
- Reduce speed
- Increase following distance
- Avoid sudden braking
- Use extra caution on ramps and side streets
Pedestrians should also be alert for icy sidewalks and parking lots, particularly during the morning hours.
Brief Improvement Before the Next System
Conditions improve briefly later Sunday. Skies are expected to turn partly sunny, with afternoon highs climbing near 30 degrees. Snow-covered surfaces may begin to melt, leading to wet pavement across much of eastern New York.
This short-lived improvement sets the stage for the next concern as temperatures fluctuate overnight.
Freezing Rain Risk Sunday Night
Rain moves into the region Sunday night, with temperatures dipping toward the mid-20s. This raises the risk of freezing rain, especially during the late evening and overnight hours.
Even a light glaze of ice can create dangerous travel conditions, particularly on untreated roads, sidewalks, and driveways. Holiday travelers heading out late Sunday or early Monday should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
Monday: Rain, Wind, and Standing Water
Monday brings a milder but unsettled pattern. Rain becomes more widespread, with highs reaching the mid-40s. Gusty winds may accompany the system, and standing water could develop where storm drains are blocked by snow and ice.
Drivers should watch for ponding on roadways and reduced visibility during heavier rain.
Cold Air Returns, Black Ice Concerns
Behind the system, colder air quickly returns. Tuesday turns breezy and colder, with highs near 25 degrees. Any remaining moisture on roads may refreeze after dark, increasing the risk of black ice during the evening and overnight hours.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, winter conditions remain firmly in control heading into 2026.
Five-Day Outlook: Albany, NY
Today: Snow tapering to flurries; high near 28
Sunday: Partly sunny; high near 30
Monday: Rain likely, windy; high near 46
Tuesday: Breezy, colder; high near 25
Wednesday (New Year’s Eve): Chance of snow showers; high near 33
Residents and travelers are encouraged to monitor forecasts closely and adjust plans as conditions change. Share your experiences in the comments below.
