Weather Albany NY continues to be a critical topic for residents, commuters, and visitors across the Capital Region as a powerful winter storm system has just left its mark and lingering hazardous conditions remain. After a significant snow and ice event over the weekend, meteorologists are closely watching another weather system approaching, and local agencies are responding to the evolving forecast. Today’s weather in Albany combines cold temperatures, slippery travel conditions, and the potential for additional precipitation late in the day.
This full update reflects the most recent, verified information as of December 28, 2025.
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Current Conditions This Morning in Albany
Albany opened the day under extremely cold and mostly cloudy skies. Temperatures are near 10–13°F early this morning with a noticeable wind chill making it feel even colder on exposed skin. Humidity levels are elevated under the overcast deck, and winds are light but steady from the north. Despite the bitter cold, visibility remains good across much of the metro area.
By mid-morning, skies remained mostly cloudy with highs only rising into the upper 20s to near freezing. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect this evening into Monday morning, with forecasters warning of freezing rain as temperatures hover around the freezing mark.
Snow and Ice From the Weekend Winter Storm
A powerful winter storm that impacted the Northeast over the Christmas holiday weekend brought significant snowfall and travel complications to Albany and the surrounding Capital Region.
Snow Totals and Coverage
Snowfall totals ranged from 5 to 9 inches across most of the Albany area, with some parts of the Hudson Valley and Catskills reporting higher totals approaching and exceeding a foot. Snow accumulated quickly Friday night into Saturday, making roads slick and prompting immediate snow removal efforts. Municipal crews have been working around the clock to clear major roadways, intersections, and emergency routes.
Transition to Ice
Following the snow, temperatures hovered near the freezing mark, causing portions of the storm to transition to freezing rain and sleet. This mix left a glaze of ice on roads, sidewalks, and other hard surfaces that has refrozen overnight in many areas, making travel risky and conditions unpredictable.
State and Local Emergency Measures
In response to the winter storm, state and local officials took proactive action to protect public safety and manage response efforts.
State of Emergency Declaration
The Governor of New York declared a State of Emergency covering dozens of counties including Albany. This declaration mobilizes additional state resources, facilitates interagency coordination, and allows communities to tap emergency funds and personnel as needed.
Snow Emergencies and Parking Restrictions
Several municipalities surrounding Albany, such as Brunswick, Menands, East Greenbush, and Scotia, declared snow emergencies with active parking restrictions to ensure snow plows and emergency vehicles can operate without obstruction. These local measures are vital to keeping main roads clear and ensuring timely snow removal.
Travel Impacts: Roads and Airports
Road Travel
Although snow has tapered off, roads remain treacherous in many areas due to compacted snow and new ice forming as temperatures fluctuate. Early reports this weekend included multiple vehicle collisions on Interstate 787, prompting temporary lane closures and delays as emergency responders cleared the incidents and maintenance crews worked to treat the road surfaces.
Bridges, ramps, and shaded stretches of road are particularly slick, and snow pack remains on many side streets where plowing has been slower. Drivers are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution, avoid unnecessary travel during peak refreezing hours, and use high-traction tires and chains where recommended.
Airport Disruptions
Albany International Airport experienced several flight cancellations and delays during the height of the storm, and while most operations have been returning to normal, lingering impacts continue. Winter conditions in the broader region have contributed to cascading delays at major hubs, affecting inbound and outbound schedules. Travelers are encouraged to confirm flight details before heading to the airport.
Forecast Through the Week: Detailed Outlook
Sunday (Today)
Today will start cold and mostly cloudy, with highs struggling to climb above the upper 20s. Clouds will thicken through the afternoon and evening as a new weather system approaches. By late afternoon and evening, freezing rain is expected to develop, transitioning to a mix of freezing rain and rain through the night. Temperatures will hover just at or slightly above 32°F, creating optimal conditions for ice buildup on untreated surfaces.
Monday
Temperatures moderate somewhat on Monday with highs near the low 40s. Rain is likely during the day as warmer air moves in ahead of a cold front. These rain showers could be heavy at times, and melting of existing snow and ice will accelerate, potentially leading to water pooling and slush on streets and sidewalks.
Tuesday
After the rain, colder air returns, bringing wind and a much brisker feel. Highs will fall into the mid-20s with persistent winds gusting at times. These winds could contribute to blowing snow and reduced visibility in open areas.
Wednesday
A chance of light snow showers returns midweek as the colder air mass settles in. Daytime highs will remain in the 20s to low 30s.
New Year’s Eve and Early January
New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day presents continued chilly conditions with a chance of light snow showers. Temperatures will remain well below seasonal averages, and overnight lows may dip into the teens. The first week of January is likely to stay active with periodic chances for light snow but no major storms immediately evident in the forecast.
Understanding the Weather Pattern
Albany is no stranger to winter weather, with December typically featuring cold temperatures and periodic snowfall. What makes events like the recent storm noteworthy is the combination of heavy snow, rapid transition to freezing rain, and sustained low temperatures that prevent melting.
One regional meteorological factor influencing weather patterns around Albany is the unique convergence of air flows known as the Mohawk–Hudson convergence zone, which can locally intensify snowfall and prolong precipitation under certain setups. This dynamic can make snow events linger over the Capital District even as broader storm systems move eastward.
Ice, Freezing Rain, and Traffic Concerns Tonight
Tonight’s weather is particularly concerning for anyone traveling late in the evening or into the overnight hours. Forecast models indicate a solid chance of freezing rain beginning late Sunday afternoon and continuing into the early morning hours of Monday.
This type of precipitation occurs when warmer air aloft produces liquid precipitation that then falls into a colder layer near the surface. The result is rain that freezes on contact with cold surfaces, creating a thin glaze of ice. Just a quarter-inch of ice accumulation can drastically increase the risk of:
- Slippery roads
- Icy bridges and overpasses
- Dangerous walking conditions
- Power line and tree limb stress
Residents are urged to plan travel carefully if necessary, and to be especially cautious on untreated side streets and sidewalks.
Record Holiday Travel Disruptions Across the Northeast
Though Albany’s local conditions are a primary focus, the broader Northeast has also felt the full force of winter weather over the post-Christmas travel period.
Major airports throughout the region saw thousands of flight delays and cancellations as heavy snow, ice, and strong winds affected operations. New York City-area terminals, including JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark, were among the hardest hit, with several airlines instituting weather waivers and travelers facing extended waits.
The reach of this storm highlights how interconnected travel infrastructure is across the Northeast, with disruptions far from Albany still cycling back to affect schedules and roadway conditions in the Capital Region.
Safety and Preparedness Tips for Residents
While winter weather is a familiar challenge for Albany residents, events like this emphasize the need for ongoing readiness:
For Drivers
- Leave plenty of extra travel time.
- Reduce speed significantly on icy or slushy surfaces.
- Maintain longer following distances.
- Use winter or all-weather tires.
- Keep headlight beams clear of snow and ice.
For Pedestrians
- Wear appropriate footwear with good traction.
- Walk slowly and avoid slick patches.
- Use handrails where available.
- Be cautious of overhanging ice and snow buildup.
For Homeowners
- Clear driveways and walkways early and often.
- Apply ice melt or sand to slippery areas.
- Check that heating systems are functioning efficiently.
- Protect outdoor pipes and water lines from freezing.
- Prepare an emergency winter kit for your home and vehicle.
Community Response and Ongoing Recovery
Across Albany and neighboring communities, public works crews are continuing snow removal and road treatment operations. Plows have focused on major arteries and emergency routes first, with secondary streets receiving attention as conditions allow.
In many towns, snow emergencies remain in effect, and residents must move vehicles off designated snow routes to allow plows to operate effectively. These coordinated efforts help ensure safe passage for emergency vehicles and improve general roadway conditions.
What to Watch Next in Weather Albany NY
With another weather system moving into the Midwest and set to affect the Northeast, Albany’s weather is far from settled. That incoming system is expected to bring mixed precipitation and continued cold air behind it, possibly resulting in additional snowfall or extended periods of icing. Snowfall northeast of Albany could be enhanced by localized atmospheric conditions, and temperatures are expected to remain below normal into the New Year.
Stay alert for updates on:
- Freezing rain timing
- Wind gusts behind upcoming fronts
- Snow shower chances midweek
- Temperature swings and overnight freeze-ups
Conclusion: Stay Informed and Prepared
Weather Albany NY is evolving as winter conditions persist across the Capital Region. From the recent impactful storm to tonight’s freezing rain threat and into the first days of the New Year, Albany residents should remain vigilant and prepared for hazardous conditions.
Whether you’re commuting, planning travel, or simply stepping outside, up-to-the-minute weather awareness and adherence to safety recommendations will make all the difference.
We invite you to share how the winter weather in Albany is affecting you this week — comment below and stay connected for the latest updates on conditions and forecast changes.
