Watertown, NY – Northern New York travelers should plan for a mix of rain, snow, and colder temperatures through Thanksgiving week, with multiple systems affecting the region from Wednesday through Black Friday, according to the latest Weather Prediction Center maps.
According to the WPC, a large coastal storm will push widespread rain into the region early Wednesday, impacting the Adirondacks, St. Lawrence Valley, Watertown, Plattsburgh, Lewis County, and the North Country. Rain is expected during the day along major corridors including I-81, Route 3, Route 11, and the Adirondack Northway (I-87). Reduced visibility and wet roads may slow holiday travel.
As the storm lifts north Wednesday night into Thanksgiving Day (Thursday, November 27, 2025), colder air will move in behind the front. This will transition some areas—especially higher elevations in the Adirondacks—to wet snow. Farther west, lake-effect snow bands off Lake Ontario may intensify, especially over the Tug Hill Plateau, where localized accumulations are possible. The St. Lawrence Valley and Plattsburgh region may see lighter snow or mixed precipitation.
By Black Friday (November 28, 2025), a reinforcing shot of cold air settles over Northern New York. Lake-effect snow remains possible east of Lake Ontario, with bands shifting south and weakening through the day. Temperatures will hold in the upper 20s to mid-30s, bringing a chilly start for early-morning shoppers. Mountain areas in the central and northern Adirondacks may see additional light snow.
Travelers across Northern New York should prepare for wet roads Wednesday, snowy travel in lake-effect and mountain areas Thursday, and continued cold conditions Friday, especially around Watertown and the Tug Hill region.
