Albany’s Thanksgiving Surprise: A Snowy Celebration

Albany’s Thanksgiving Surprise: A Snowy Celebration!

Albany is waking up to an unexpected winter wonderland this Thanksgiving Day! Instead of the usual turkey and pumpkin pie, residents are bundling up and braving the snow. This year marks a striking departure from the past decade—it’s the first time a Thanksgiving snowstorm has graced our area since 2014! And let me tell you, it didn’t hold back!

A Snowy Forecast and a Festive Feel

The Capital Region had fingers crossed for rain, but Mother Nature had other plans. While early predictions had a cozy Thanksgiving setup with rain dominating the forecast, the weather took a chilly turn. Just after noon on Wednesday, forecasts changed with the temperature dipping into the lower 30s. Suddenly, snow was on the table!

The National Weather Service in Albany reported that by late Thursday afternoon, Albany International Airport was hit with a solid 3.7 inches of snow. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg! Nearby Knox, nestled in the Albany County Hilltowns, recorded the highest amount with an impressive 10.5 inches. Talk about a festive scene!

Visibility Takes a Hit

The heavy, wet snow transformed Albany into a holiday postcard, but it also brought its share of challenges. Roads turned slippery quickly, complicating travel plans for families heading out to see friends and loved ones. Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple took to social media with a friendly reminder, “Roads can go from wet to snow covered in seconds based on elevation.” His advice? “Leave a little early, drive a little slower, and enjoy your day with family.”

Schenectady and Saratoga counties weren’t left out of the snowy fun either, reporting anywhere from 6 to 8.5 inches of fresh powder as of Thursday afternoon. For those hoping to take a scenic drive, a winter weather advisory had been issued for the immediate Albany area. North of the Thruway, a winter storm warning was in effect, making it clear that this wasn’t just light flurries!

Power Outages and Preparations

As if a snowstorm wasn’t enough, National Grid and New York State Gas and Electric reported a few outages later in the day, especially in areas west of Albany and the Catskills. With winds picking up and temperatures dropping, many families were reminded to be cautious and prepared.

The Fun in the Snow

But let’s not forget the fun part! Families are hitting the streets for some classic Thanksgiving snow activities. Kids are out building snowmen, and parents are enjoying a well-deserved hot cocoa while taking in the picturesque scene. After all, a bit of snow adds a special touch to the Thanksgiving spirit.

As we look ahead, forecasters from the National Weather Service warn of more snow on the way throughout the evening. It’s not just a light dusting either! Winds shifting brings colder air into play, raising concerns about continued snowfall. So, keep those snow shovels handy!

The Aftermath: Braving the Elements

Governor Kathy Hochul issued statements regarding potential snow accumulations in other parts of the state. With lake-effect snow warnings in place from Friday through Monday for western and central New York, residents in those areas could see accumulations hit a whopping 3 to 4 feet! Yikes!

To put this snowy Thanksgiving in perspective, the last time Albany saw over 3 inches of snow on this holiday was back in 2014. That year, a storm swept through, leaving behind a stunning 10.4 inches. So it seems Albany is finally back in the snow game!

Final tidbits

As we gather our loved ones around the dinner table or dig into a plate of leftovers, let’s embrace the beauty of a snowy Thanksgiving. Whether it’s feasting or frolicking in the snow, enjoy the hustle and bustle of the holiday!