Albany, NY – A damp, wintry pattern is settling over the Capital Region as a fast-moving weather system brings a mix of rain and snow across eastern New York. Morning skies are overcast and raw, and meteorologists say steady rain will increase by midmorning before colder air arrives later in the day. Temperatures are expected to climb into the mid-30s before dipping again toward sunset, setting the stage for deteriorating travel conditions along I-87 and surrounding routes.
Changing weather could affect evening and overnight travel
Forecasters report that today’s rain is likely to transition back to snow late in the evening as colder air filters into the region. While accumulations are expected to remain light — generally less than half an inch for most of Albany County — elevated surfaces and untreated roads may still become hazardous.
Bridges, shaded secondary roads, and back roads pose the highest risk, as temperatures fall sharply toward 22°F by early Thursday. Even minimal snow combined with refreezing moisture can create patches of black ice that are difficult to see until you’re directly on them.
Officials warn of slick spots and freezing patches
Transportation and weather officials say drivers should use caution tonight and early Thursday.
“Any residual moisture from the rain may freeze quickly as temperatures drop, creating slick and unpredictable travel conditions,” forecasters noted in their early-morning advisory.
Motorists using I-87, especially areas north and west of Albany, are urged to reduce speed and allow extra time for the morning commute. Pedestrians should also be alert to freezing sidewalks and driveways.
Thursday turns colder with lingering flurries
After the overnight freeze, Thursday brings a brisk and wintry feel to the region. Highs will struggle to reach 29°F, and northwest winds gusting up to 25 mph will make conditions feel closer to the upper teens. A few scattered flurries may continue through the afternoon before skies gradually clear.
The colder air pattern marks a shift toward more typical December conditions, with nighttime temperatures dropping quickly once the wind relaxes. This can allow for additional refreezing in low-lying areas, shaded parking lots, and untreated roadways.
Friday brings sunshine, but the cold sticks around
Friday is expected to be one of the quieter days of the week, offering bright skies and a high near 30°F. Winds will ease, creating a crisp but calmer December day. Morning conditions will remain cold, however, so drivers should still prepare for frost and icy patches.
Clear skies Friday night may help set up another cold start Saturday as temperatures dip back into the upper teens.
Weekend weather turns slightly milder
The region will see a modest warmup over the weekend. Highs are forecast to reach the mid-30s Saturday and approach 40°F on Sunday as a gentler air mass moves through. Another chance of light snow returns Saturday afternoon as part of a quick-moving Great Lakes clipper system expected to pass east into early next week.
While no significant storm is expected, the timing of these quick bursts of snow can briefly reduce visibility and create slick surfaces.
Five-day outlook for Albany and the Capital Region
Thursday: Breezy and cold. High near 29°F, low 19°F. Flurries possible.
Friday: Partly sunny with a high near 30°F, low 17°F. Cold morning.
Saturday: Mostly cloudy. High 32°F, low 20°F. Light snow chance (30%).
Sunday: Partly cloudy. High 40°F, low 27°F. Calmer winds.
Monday: Mostly sunny. High 37°F, low 22°F. Dry and crisp.
Safety reminders for travelers
Drivers should clear windshields fully each morning and remain alert for black ice, especially during the late-week freeze. Freezing puddles Thursday night and into Friday can create invisible hazards on sidewalks and side streets.
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