Is Spring Really Here, or Is Mother Nature Still Hiding Snow Up Her Sleeve?
Is it time to pack away the snow shovel for good, or is winter planning one last hurrah? If you’ve lived in the Capital Region long enough, you know spring can be unpredictable.
By Egan Paving – Serving Albany, Colonie, and the Capital Region
It’s that time of year again in Albany and Colonie: the sun finally peeks out, temperatures begin to rise, and we’re all itching to get outside. Is it time to pack away the snow shovel for good, or is winter planning one last hurrah? If you’ve lived in the Capital Region long enough, you know spring can be unpredictable. While many of us are ready to dust off our grills and schedule our paving projects, the question looms: Could a late-season snowstorm still be in the cards?
A Look Back at Late-Season Snowstorms
It might sound far-fetched when the sun is shining and we’re enjoying milder days, but history tells us not to discount the possibility of April or even May snow. According to the National Weather Service Albany Historical Data, we’ve seen some notable late-in-the-year storms:
April 6, 1982 – A heavy snowstorm brought more than a foot of snow to parts of the Capital Region, closing schools and reminding us that winter might not end on the calendar’s schedule.
April Snow in the 2000s – In years like 2000, 2002, and 2007, April flurries—sometimes significant—served as a stark reminder that spring’s arrival is often a work in progress.
May 9, 1977 – This often pops up in local trivia quizzes; though accumulation was modest, it underscored how fickle Upstate New York weather can be.
A More Recent Surprise: May 2020
For a more contemporary example, look no further than May 9, 2020, when a cold air mass dipped into the Northeast and produced a brief, late-season snowfall in parts of Upstate New York. While it wasn’t a colossal storm by any stretch, it was enough to set social media abuzz and remind residents that spring weather can switch back to winter on a moment’s notice.
If you’re curious to see how local news outlets covered these late spring snowfalls, check out the archives on Times Union or watch for weather updates on WNYT NewsChannel 13. They’re reliable resources for tracking potential storms and historical weather patterns in our region.
Why Do Late Storms Happen?
Multiple factors can contribute to these out-of-season snow events:
El Niño and La Niña – These global climate patterns can push extra moisture or unseasonably cool air into the Northeast, setting the stage for a surprise snowstorm. (Learn more at NOAA’s climate page).
Atlantic Ocean Temperatures – Fluctuating ocean temps can alter storm tracks, with nor’easters occasionally retaining enough cold air to bring snow instead of rain.
Unusual Jet Stream Patterns – A southward dip in the jet stream can merge cold Canadian air with moisture from the Atlantic, creating a perfect recipe for a late-season storm.
Embracing Spring in the Capital Region
When spring finally does settle in for good, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy around Albany and Colonie:
Tulip Festival in Washington Park – Typically held in May, Albany’s Tulip Festival is a beloved local tradition celebrating the city’s Dutch heritage. Let’s hope Mother Nature doesn’t decide to drop another late-season snow!
Colonie Farmers’ Market at The Crossings – Come warmer weather, locals flock to The Crossings of Colonie for fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. It’s an ideal spot for a springtime stroll.
Hiking and Picnics – With so many scenic parks like Thatcher Park, Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, and the Pine Bush Preserve, you’ll never run out of spots to enjoy the outdoors—once the snow stays away.
Is Spring Here to Stay?
That’s the million-dollar question. Most years, once we move into late March or early April, the odds of significant snowfall drop dramatically—but they never hit zero. Warm days may lull us into a false sense of security, only to see an abrupt cold snap a week later. While extended forecasts might promise milder conditions, it’s wise to keep a watchful eye on local weather reports well into April—and, as May 2020 proved, sometimes even beyond.
Don’t Let the Weather Delay Your Paving Projects
Whether spring is truly here for good or we see one last snowy encore, early spring is still an excellent time to think about repairing or installing pavement. Egan Paving is proud to serve Albany, Colonie, and the broader Capital Region. Even if the weather is unpredictable, we’re here to help you:
Assess any winter damage to your driveway or parking lot
Repair cracks and potholes before they become bigger (and more expensive) issues
Resurface or repave to extend the life of your pavement and enhance curb appeal
Why Choose Egan Paving?
Local Know-How – We’ve seen it all when it comes to Upstate New York’s crazy weather. We tailor our paving process to withstand freeze-thaw cycles and unpredictable spring storms.
Quality Materials – We use top-grade asphalt and sealants to ensure your pavement stands the test of time—whether we’re dealing with a sudden May snowfall or a scorching summer day.
Customer-Focused – Our team works around your schedule, making sure your paving project is as convenient and hassle-free as possible.
Final Thoughts
As we keep our fingers crossed for a smooth slide into summer, now is the perfect time to plan your driveway or parking lot maintenance. Egan Paving is offering $300 off your next paving project when you book now for an appointment in April. If you’re ready to protect and beautify your pavement—or if you just need expert advice—reach out to Egan Paving today. We’ll help ensure your property is ready for whatever Mother Nature delivers next.
References/Additional Reading:
National Weather Service Albany Historical Data (Historical snowfall records)
NOAA El Niño/La Niña Information (Background on global climate patterns)
Times Union (Local news and weather updates)
WNYT NewsChannel 13 (Local TV weather forecasts)