Albany, NY – A blast of lake effect snow could snarl Thanksgiving weekend travel across parts of central and northeastern New York, with snowfall totals reaching up to 10 inches and winds gusting to 45 mph through early Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Albany, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from 4 p.m. Thursday to 7 a.m. Saturday for Herkimer and Hamilton Counties. Snow will intensify behind a strong cold front moving in late Wednesday, with the heaviest, most persistent bands impacting areas east of Lake Ontario and the Adirondack foothills.
Snow totals could reach 9.2 inches in Old Forge and 4–6 inches in towns like Blue Mountain Lake, Piseco, and Herkimer. Lighter accumulations of 1–3 inches are expected in cities farther east, including Saratoga Springs, Albany, and Glens Falls. Strong northwest winds up to 45 mph may cause blowing snow and reduced visibility, especially in open areas along Route 28 and Route 30.
Drivers should avoid non-essential travel during peak snow hours Thursday night into Friday, secure holiday decorations, and prepare for rapidly changing road conditions. Power outages are possible due to wind and wet snow on tree limbs and power lines.
Winter alerts remain in effect through Saturday morning, with more advisories possible as the weekend progresses.
