Albany, N.Y. – October will begin with the coldest air of the season as freeze watches stretch across much of New York from late Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Temperatures are expected to plummet into the upper 20s and low 30s, marking the state’s first widespread hard freeze.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Albany, Binghamton, and Buffalo, freeze watches are in place for counties from the Catskills to the Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier, and North Country. Cities and towns including Oneonta, Delhi, Cobleskill, Lowville, and Woodstock are among those bracing for sub-freezing temperatures.
The sudden chill threatens farms, gardens, and unprotected pipes. Agricultural officials warn that frost and freeze conditions could wipe out sensitive crops, while homeowners are urged to wrap or drain outdoor plumbing and sprinkler systems to prevent costly damage.
The statewide coverage of these freeze watches signals the end of the growing season for many areas. By Thursday morning, widespread frost is expected, and the cold could linger into the weekend if skies remain clear overnight.
