Albany, NY – Northern and Upstate New York are gearing up for a stretch of wintry, active weather from December 18–24, with NOAA’s long-range outlook indicating a strong potential for snow and mixed precipitation heading into Christmas Eve. The region sits at the intersection of below-normal temperatures in the north and above-normal precipitation statewide, increasing confidence in multiple rounds of wintry weather.
According to NOAA, the Adirondacks, North Country, Tug Hill Plateau, and northern Mohawk Valley fall within the below-normal temperature zone, setting the stage for predominantly snow during this period. These areas are most likely to see accumulating snow, with moderate totals possible as systems track across the Great Lakes and Northeast.
Central and Upper Hudson Valley regions—including Albany, Saratoga Springs, Utica, and Syracuse—trend near to slightly below normal in temperature. This pattern supports snow for much of the week, though brief periods of rain–snow mix are possible between December 19–21 when temperatures rise toward freezing.
Farther south, including Binghamton and portions of the Southern Tier, slightly milder intervals could introduce freezing drizzle or icy mixes, but colder air pushes back in by December 22–24, increasing the chance for snow during peak Christmas travel.
Key routes including I-87, I-81, I-90, and the Northway may experience slick conditions, reduced visibility, and travel slowdowns, especially from December 21 through Christmas Eve.
