Albany, NY – Lake-effect snow will impact parts of eastern New York and western Massachusetts today, with multiple Winter Weather Advisories issued across the region. The National Weather Service says snow will begin late this morning in the Berkshires and continue elsewhere through Friday night into early Saturday, creating slippery roads and affecting holiday travel.
According to the National Weather Service in Albany, Northern Berkshire County in Massachusetts and Eastern Rensselaer County in New York will see 2 to 5 inches of snow from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, with winds gusting to 40 mph. Snowfall rates may briefly reach 1 inch per hour where lake-effect bands intensify this afternoon and evening.
Farther west, lake-effect snow will continue across Schoharie, Montgomery and Fulton counties, including Cobleskill, Amsterdam, Gloversville and Johnstown. Snow totals of 2 to 6 inches are expected, with the advisory remaining in effect until 7 a.m. Saturday. Strong winds may create blowing snow and sudden visibility drops, especially in open areas and along elevated roadways.
Forecasters warn that conditions may vary significantly over short distances, with some areas experiencing heavy bursts of snow while others see little accumulation. Drivers should prepare for slick roads, icy sidewalks and rapidly changing visibility throughout the day.
Holiday travelers are encouraged to slow down, allow extra time and closely monitor updated forecasts. The National Weather Service notes that hazardous conditions may impact both Friday evening shoppers and early Saturday travel.
