New York wakes up locked in winter’s grip as Arctic air presses across the Capital Region. Streetlights glow over frozen sidewalks, car doors creak open, and exposed skin stings within seconds. Temperatures hover near 11 degrees in Albany, while wind chills dip to around 4 below, making this one of the coldest mornings so far this December.
According to the National Weather Service, the cold remains the main hazard through the morning commute. Frostbite can occur with prolonged exposure, especially with steady northwest winds. Drivers should allow extra warm-up time and watch bridges and ramps for black ice, where cold pavement holds onto ice longer.
Clouds increase later today as the core of the Arctic air begins to slide east. Despite more cloud cover, temperatures struggle to rise, topping out near 26 degrees. A slight chance of snow showers develops tonight, mainly before midnight. Any light accumulation could create slick spots for late travelers.
Conditions begin to improve Tuesday as sunshine returns. Temperatures remain cold early, then climb toward the upper 20s by afternoon. By Wednesday, a noticeable shift arrives. Milder air pushes into eastern New York, sending highs into the low 40s. Snowbanks soften, and roads become wet rather than icy.
That thaw sets up the next transition. Rain moves in Thursday, with temperatures staying well above freezing. While widespread winter precipitation is not expected, meteorologists note December patterns can change quickly. A late-week cooling trend could still refreeze moisture after sunset.
This sharp temperature swing signals the heart of winter transition season. Cold snaps arrive fast, then retreat just as quickly, especially ahead of Christmas travel.
Plan for the cold early today, then stay alert as conditions shift rapidly through midweek.
Five-Day Outlook for Albany, NY
• Today: Increasing clouds, bitter cold. High near 26°F
• Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High near 29°F
• Wednesday: Partly sunny, milder. High near 41°F
• Thursday: Rain likely. High near 43°F
• Friday: Chance of rain early. High near 48°F
