New York wakes beneath a cold, muted sky, and the air carries that unmistakable December bite as light wind brushes across frosted rooftops. Pavement looks dry now, but subtle hints of moisture on bridge decks remind drivers that winter can change conditions fast—especially with snow chances building into the weekend.
Today brings partly sunny skies across Rensselaer and Albany, with highs near 32°F. Winds from the west run brisk at times, gusting toward 24 mph, adding a steady chill. This is the kind of pattern that encourages early “winter tease” flakes once temperatures dip again. If you’re traveling I-90 or heading into downtown Albany this afternoon, keep gloves close and allow time for reduced visibility if the breeze kicks up loose snow.
Models now track a Saturday snow chance, especially after midday. Light accumulation remains limited, but even a coating can create slippery transitions at intersections. Temperatures rise only into the mid-30s, and a slow wind shift from west to south reduces gusts but keeps the afternoon feeling crisp.
Saturday night grows colder, with lows near 20°F as the next disturbance approaches. Snow chances increase, though NWS guidance keeps totals modest—generally under an inch. Still, flash-freeze spots may develop where daytime melting refreezes on untreated surfaces.
Sunday introduces a slight chance of snow showers before early afternoon. Highs in the upper 20s combine with strengthening northwest wind, a setup that often sparks thin bands of lake-enhanced flakes sliding into the Capital Region. Travel could become locally slick near hilltops and ramps.
Plan ahead: dress for biting wind, expect changing road conditions, and keep your Sunday travel flexible.
Five-Day Outlook:
• Saturday: Chance of snow, high 34.
• Sunday: Slight snow chance early, high 28.
• Monday: Mostly sunny, high 23.
• Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 30.
• Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high 40.
