ALBANY, N.Y. – The first widespread hard freeze of the season is expected across eastern New York, western New England, and northern Connecticut late Thursday night, with temperatures plunging to 25–30°F between 11PM and 9AM EDT Friday. The National Weather Service in Albany said the event will likely end the 2025 growing season for the Capital Region, Berkshires, and much of the Hudson Valley.
According to the National Weather Service, the Freeze Warning includes Albany, Schenectady, Troy, Saratoga Springs, Kingston, Poughkeepsie, Pittsfield, Bennington, and Torrington. Clear skies and calm winds will allow rapid temperature drops after sunset, producing widespread frost and prolonged subfreezing conditions through early morning.
Residents are urged to protect outdoor plants and plumbing. Gardeners should bring in potted plants or cover sensitive vegetation, while homeowners are advised to drain garden hoses and wrap exposed pipes. Agricultural officials in New York and Massachusetts warn that this freeze could kill remaining field crops and ornamentals, particularly in low-lying rural areas.
Drivers should allow extra time Friday morning for frost removal and possible slick bridges. Sunshine will return during the day, bringing highs back into the lower 50s. Another cold night is likely before milder air arrives this weekend.
