Albany, NY – A fresh round of winter weather is moving into eastern Upstate New York this evening, with freezing rain expected to create hazardous travel conditions across Northern Saratoga County and Southeast Warren County. The National Weather Service in Albany issued a Winter Weather Advisory as forecasters warn of light icing developing shortly after sunset.
The advisory, highlighted through details shared by the NWS in its latest update, notes that even a glaze to one-tenth of an inch of ice may be enough to make untreated roads and sidewalks dangerous. Communities such as Saratoga Springs, Saratoga Lake, West Glens Falls, and Glens Falls are expected to be impacted as temperatures hover near the freezing mark.
Freezing Rain Expected to Impact Evening Travel
Forecasters say the timing of the incoming freezing rain aligns with late-day travel, increasing the potential for accidents. Even minor ice accumulation can quickly reduce traction, especially on elevated areas.
“Roads, sidewalks, and bridges may become slick quickly once precipitation begins,” the National Weather Service noted in its advisory.
Bridges and overpasses are likely to freeze first due to their exposure to colder air on all sides. Drivers should be cautious as icy patches may appear identical to wet pavement, leading to sudden loss of control.
Communities Under the Advisory
The Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 4 p.m. Saturday through 1 a.m. Sunday, covering several well-traveled areas in the region. The lightly populated rural zones around Saratoga Lake and the busy corridors near Glens Falls could experience the most noticeable changes as temperatures dip during the evening commute.
Key locations included in the alert:
- Saratoga Springs and surrounding communities
- West Glens Falls and Glens Falls
- Northern Saratoga County roadways and lake-effect corridors
These regions may see untreated surfaces transition to ice within minutes once precipitation begins, especially if temperatures fall faster than forecast.
How Drivers Can Stay Safe
With the potential for icy roads lasting into early Sunday, residents are urged to prepare for slower travel and fluctuating conditions. Safety experts frequently recommend adjusting plans when freezing rain is expected, as it can lead to unpredictable road hazards.
Two quick steps can lower travel risks:
- Reduce speed and increase following distance
- Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns on roads that may have black ice
Freezing rain often creates near-invisible hazards, making caution essential for anyone traveling after sunset.
Conditions Improving After Midnight
The National Weather Service notes that icy conditions should improve after midnight, as precipitation gradually ends and temperatures begin a slow rise. Still, untreated sidewalks, steps, and driveways may stay slick until a complete thaw occurs early Sunday.
Residents should be cautious when stepping outside, especially in shaded areas or spots with limited drainage, where ice tends to linger.
What Residents Are Reporting
People across Saratoga Springs, Glens Falls, and nearby communities have begun preparing for the incoming system, with many checking local forecasts and road conditions. The NWS Albany office has continued sharing updates on its advisory, emphasizing the importance of monitoring temperature trends as evening approaches.
Have conditions already started changing in your neighborhood? Some residents have reported light precipitation beginning ahead of schedule, though widespread icing is not expected until dusk.
Share your experiences in the comments below.
