Albany, N.Y. – Gray skies, smoky air and increasing humidity are setting the stage for an active afternoon across New York’s Capital Region. While the day began quietly, conditions are expected to change rapidly as strong thunderstorms develop, bringing bursts of heavy rain, gusty winds and dangerous lightning before cooler air arrives.
According to the National Weather Service in Albany, an Air Quality Alert remains in effect until midnight tonight for fine particulate pollution. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation says smoke has pushed the Air Quality Index above 100 in portions of eastern New York. Children, older adults and anyone with asthma or heart disease should limit prolonged outdoor activity.
The weather becomes increasingly active this afternoon. Forecasters expect an 80% chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon, with some storms capable of becoming severe. Temperatures will climb to around 81 degrees, while south winds increase to 7 to 14 mph, with gusts reaching 28 mph. Heavy downpours, frequent lightning and isolated damaging wind gusts are the primary concerns. While the tornado threat remains low, residents should stay alert for rapidly changing conditions.
Travelers along Interstate 87, Interstate 90, U.S. Route 9 and the New York State Thruway should prepare for changing visibility and ponding water during heavier storms. Brief delays are possible during the afternoon and evening commute. If thunder is heard, move indoors immediately and avoid flooded roadways.
Conditions improve noticeably by Sunday as sunshine returns with a high near 79 degrees. Monday stays warm and dry before another round of showers and thunderstorms moves back into the Capital Region on Tuesday. Additional rain chances continue into midweek.
Looking beyond the five-day period, climate outlooks continue to favor above-normal temperatures across the Northeast, keeping midsummer warmth in place despite periodic storm systems.
Seeing smoky skies or thunderstorms where you live? Share your weather conditions from around the Capital Region.
Five-Day Forecast for Albany, New York
- Sunday: Sunny. High 79°F, Low 56°F.
- Monday: Sunny. High 83°F, Low 61°F.
- Tuesday: Showers likely with thunderstorms possible (70%). High 82°F, Low 64°F.
- Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely (70%). High 80°F, Low 59°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny. High 79°F, Low 58°F.
