Wintry Mix Forecast to Impact Capital Region Commute

Snow, rain, and ice could make for slippery travel on Wednesday afternoon

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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A storm system is expected to bring a mix of snow, wintry mix, and rain to the Capital Region on Wednesday, potentially impacting the afternoon commute. Forecasters predict anywhere from 1 to 6 inches of snow, with the highest amounts north of Albany, while areas to the south may see more of a wintry mix or plain rain.

Why it matters

Wintry weather can create hazardous driving conditions, increasing the risk of accidents and delays during the busy afternoon commute. This storm highlights the ongoing challenges the region faces with winter weather and the need for residents to be prepared for changing conditions.

The details

According to meteorologists, the storm system is expected to arrive just in time for the Wednesday afternoon commute, with precipitation beginning in the early afternoon hours. The type of precipitation will vary across the region, with the highest snowfall totals of 3 to 6 inches predicted around Glens Falls, while Albany is expected to see 1 to 3 inches. Areas to the south in the Hudson Valley may see more of a wintry mix or plain rain. The precipitation is expected to wrap up around midnight or 1 a.m. on Thursday.

  • The storm system is expected to arrive in the early afternoon on Wednesday, February 17, 2026.
  • Precipitation is expected to continue through the evening, wrapping up around midnight or 1 a.m. on Thursday, February 18, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service in Albany

The National Weather Service office in Albany, New York, which is responsible for issuing weather forecasts and warnings for the Capital Region.

Brett Rathbun

A meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Albany who provided details on the expected weather conditions.

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What they’re saying

“There's been fluctuations in where this front is going to set up.”

— Brett Rathbun, Meteorologist (Times Union)

“Cannot rule out patchy freezing drizzle/snow early tomorrow morning. Then, increasing confidence in a period of wet snow Wed into Wed night with 30-60% chance for 2" or more mainly near & north of I-90. This can lead to slippery travel for Wed P.M commute.”

— NWS Albany (Twitter)

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm system and provide updates on the expected weather conditions and potential impacts on the region's commuters.

The takeaway

This winter storm serves as a reminder for residents in the Capital Region to be prepared for changing weather conditions and the potential for hazardous travel during the commute. Staying informed of the latest forecasts and adjusting travel plans accordingly can help mitigate the risks associated with wintry weather.