Albany, NY – A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for parts of Upstate New York this evening, with forecasters cautioning that even a light coating of ice could make roads and sidewalks hazardous as temperatures drop after sunset.
Parts of northern Warren, Hamilton, and northern Fulton counties are expected to see a glaze to around one-tenth of an inch of ice beginning around 4 p.m. Saturday and continuing through 1 a.m. Sunday, according to details shared by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Albany.
Freezing Rain Timing and Expected Impacts
Forecasters expect freezing rain to develop late this afternoon, spreading across the Adirondack region during the early evening. Communities such as Bolton Landing, Warrensburg, North Creek, Long Lake, Caroga Lake, Wells, and Johnsburg are highlighted as areas most likely to experience slick surfaces.
While ice totals remain on the lighter side, the timing near the evening commute raises concerns. Temperatures will hover near freezing, making it easier for a thin icy glaze to form on cold pavement.
Why Light Ice Accumulation Can Be Dangerous
Even minimal icing can create unsafe travel conditions because frozen moisture adheres quickly to exposed surfaces. Elevated roadways such as bridges and overpasses are often the first to glaze over due to faster cooling.
A statement included in the NWS advisory notes:
“Light icing will result in slippery conditions on untreated sidewalks, roads, and bridges.”
Residents are encouraged to treat this event with caution, as low-visibility areas and untreated surfaces may become deceptively slick.
Areas Most at Risk for Hazardous Travel
Based on the NWS outlook, the following locations may observe the most notable impacts:
- Northern Warren County including Warrensburg and Bolton Landing
- Hamilton County including Long Lake and Wells
- Northern Fulton County including Caroga Lake
These communities lie within colder, higher-elevation zones where shallow warm layers aloft support freezing rain instead of snow.
What Drivers Should Do This Evening
Motorists planning to travel between late afternoon and midnight should be prepared for slippery stretches, particularly during the early stages of precipitation. Experts advise:
- Reducing speed and increasing stopping distance
- Remaining alert for untreated back roads
- Using extra caution on bridges and overpasses
The NWS also recommends allowing additional time for evening travel and staying updated on real-time road conditions.
When Conditions Will Improve Overnight
Forecasters expect freezing rain to taper off shortly after midnight. Gradually rising temperatures toward early Sunday morning should help melt any thin glaze on roadways, reducing hazards for early travelers.
Still, residents across northern Warren, Hamilton, and Fulton counties should monitor local conditions and exercise caution until temperatures rebound above freezing.
Conclusion
This system is not expected to bring heavy ice, but even a light glaze can cause challenges for drivers and pedestrians. If you’re heading out this evening, stay aware of changing conditions and plan for slower travel.
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