New York wakes up locked in deep winter.
Cold air presses down across the Capital Region, and the chill cuts instantly.
Early temperatures sit near -3 degrees around Albany and Rensselaer, with wind chills plunging as low as -15 to -20 degrees. The National Weather Service keeps a Cold Weather Advisory in effect through the morning, warning that exposed skin can develop frostbite in minutes.
The air feels brittle and unmoving. Car engines strain, sidewalks creak underfoot, and every uncovered step feels sharper than the last. Travel remains dry, but the cold alone creates risk for anyone lingering outdoors. Dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and limit time outside when possible.
Sunshine offers little relief today. Despite clear skies, highs struggle to reach the lower 20s, keeping conditions firmly in the grip of February. Winds stay light, but the cold remains relentless through the afternoon.
Tonight stays bitter. Lows fall back near 6 degrees, setting the stage for another frigid start Tuesday. Conditions slowly begin to change by midday Tuesday as clouds increase and temperatures climb toward 30 degrees.
By Tuesday afternoon, attention turns to snow. Snow showers become likely after midday, with a 70 percent chance of precipitation. Accumulations appear light, but slick roads may develop during the afternoon and evening commute. Plan extra travel time if heading out.
Snow chances linger into Tuesday night, then taper Wednesday. Highs rise into the low-to-mid 30s, signaling a gradual moderation. Winds increase slightly Wednesday, adding a brief chill before calmer weather returns.
By Thursday and Friday, highs hover near 30 to 31 degrees, cold but more seasonable. Looking ahead into early next week, longer-range trends suggest a slow warming trend, hinting that the harshest cold may finally ease.
5-Day Outlook – Rensselaer / Albany, NY
- Today: Sunny, high 22
- Tuesday: Snow showers likely, high 30
- Wednesday: Slight snow chance, high 34
- Thursday: Partly sunny, high 31
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 30
