Albany, N.Y. – A blanket of gray hangs low over the Capital Region early Thursday, with streets glistening faintly under lamplight as scattered showers move through. The air feels damp, mild — for now. But change is already building behind this system, as cooler air from the Great Lakes begins sliding east.
According to the National Weather Service in Albany, light rain will taper by midmorning, giving way to patchy sunshine Thursday afternoon with highs near 57°F. Winds from the south will shift west by evening, pulling in drier, colder air. Showers return briefly Friday morning before skies clear, setting the stage for a crisp, sun-filled weekend.
Friday’s highs will struggle to reach the mid-50s, and lows may dip into the mid-30s by Saturday morning — cold enough for patchy frost in rural valleys north and west of the city. Residents finishing up late-season yardwork or protecting gardens should prepare for those colder dawns.
Saturday brings a full taste of fall: bright skies, calm winds, and highs in the low 50s. It’s classic jacket weather for college football games or Halloween decorating around town. Sunday stays quiet and sunny before clouds return early next week.
The broader region — from eastern Pennsylvania to southern Vermont — will share this cooling trend, marking one of the first widespread cold snaps of the season. Winter vibes are creeping closer now, and by next week, another stronger system could test just how ready the Northeast is for November.
Five-Day Outlook for Albany, NY:
Thu: 57/41 – Spotty showers early; partial sun late.
Fri: 55/36 – Morning showers; cooler breeze.
Sat: 53/34 – Mostly sunny; patchy frost early.
Sun: 52/33 – Bright, calm, and cool.
Mon: 53/35 – Partly sunny; milder afternoon.
