Weather in New York City

Stay informed about the latest weather conditions in New York City. In this section, you will find up-to-date data, forecasts, and useful weather charts to help you plan your time.

The climate of New York City is characterised as humid continental, with four distinct seasons, each giving the city its own unique look. Travellers can expect significant temperature fluctuations throughout the year, so it is important to consider the season when planning a trip to the United States.

Winters in New York City are generally cold, with average temperatures in January and February around 1-3°C, often dropping below zero. Spring brings gradual warming, transforming the city from a cool March to a pleasantly warm May, when the average temperature reaches 17°C. Summer, especially in July and August, can be hot and humid, with average temperatures rising to 25°C and above, while maximum values can approach 30°C. Autumn delights with comfortable coolness, gradually lowering the temperature from warm September days to a fresher November.

Precipitation in New York City is distributed quite evenly throughout the year, with an average amount of 3 to 4 mm per month and approximately 9-14 rainy days monthly. This means that light rain is possible at any time of the year, so having an umbrella or raincoat will not be amiss. There is no pronounced rainy or dry season in New York City, which makes it attractive to visit in any month, depending on your temperature preferences.

The annual temperature course in New York City demonstrates significant contrasts characteristic of a continental climate. The coldest month is typically January, when the average temperature hovers around the 1.3°C mark. During this period, night-time lows often drop below zero, averaging down to -2.2°C, while daytime highs rarely rise above 4.7°C. Conversely, the peak of summer heat falls on July, with an average temperature of 25.6°C. During the day, the thermometer in July can reach 29.6°C, while nights remain quite warm, with minimum temperatures around 21.6°C.

The summer months in New York City – June, July, and August – are characterised by warm, and at times hot, weather. Average daytime temperatures in this season range from 26.5°C in June to peak values of around 29.6°C in July, dropping slightly to 28.2°C in August. Nights also remain warm, with temperatures rarely falling below 17.6°C in June and 20.6°C in August. It is worth noting that the high humidity characteristic of the summer period in New York City can intensify the sensation of heat, making some days quite sultry. The diurnal temperature range in summer averages 8-9°C.

Winter in New York City, covering December, January, and February, brings consistently cold weather. Monthly average temperatures during this period vary from 1.3°C in January to 3.4°C in December. Night frosts are a common occurrence, especially in January (averaging -2.2°C) and February (averaging -1.2°C), when the thermometer regularly goes into the minus. During the day, the temperature usually stays slightly above zero, reaching an average of 4.7°C in January and up to 6.7°C in December. Temperature fluctuations between day and night in winter are somewhat smaller than in other seasons, amounting to about 6-7°C.

In New York City, precipitation falls quite regularly throughout the year, and there is no clearly defined rainy or dry season here. The monthly amount of precipitation fluctuates slightly, mostly between 3 and 4 mm. However, the nature of the precipitation changes depending on the season. In winter, especially in January (average temperature 1.3°C, 3 mm of precipitation) and February (2.7°C, 3 mm), as well as in December (3.4°C, 4 mm), when temperatures often drop below zero, precipitation predominantly falls as snow. In other months, it is typically rain.

Speaking of frequency, the greatest number of days with precipitation falls on the summer months. For example, July leads with 14 rainy days (with 4 mm of precipitation), followed by August with 13 days (also 4 mm). This often means short but sometimes intense summer showers. Spring months, such as April and May, have 12 days with precipitation each, bringing refreshing rains. In autumn, the number of days with precipitation decreases slightly: in October and November there are 9 each, making these months some of the "driest" in terms of precipitation frequency, although the total number of millimetres remains within the 3-4 mm range.

Overall, the precipitation pattern in New York City is characterised by its year-round presence, with a transition from snowfall in the winter months to rain during the rest of the time. Summer stands out with the highest frequency of rainy days, which can manifest as refreshing showers, whereas autumn, especially October and November, offers slightly more days without precipitation. Despite these small fluctuations in frequency, the total amount of precipitation remains fairly stable, so light protection against rain or snow (depending on the season) will be relevant for travellers in any month.

When planning a trip to New York City, it is important to choose your wardrobe correctly to feel comfortable in any weather. Given the distinct change of seasons and the likelihood of precipitation year-round, the principle of layering will become your best friend. Comfortable walking shoes are an absolute must-have, as you will be walking a lot while exploring city streets and attractions. Do not forget a compact umbrella or a light raincoat, as rain can catch you by surprise in any month.

In winter (December-February), when average temperatures hover around 0-3°C and often drop below zero, you will need warm outerwear (a down jacket or winter coat), a hat, a scarf, gloves, and waterproof shoes, especially if snow is expected. In spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), the weather is changeable. March and November can be quite cool, so sweaters, fleece tops, and a demi-season jacket will come in handy. In April, May, September, and October, days can be pleasantly warm, but evenings can be fresh, so a light jacket or cardigan will be useful. In summer (June-August), it is hot and humid in New York City, with average temperatures reaching 22-25°C and sometimes higher. Choose light, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, and do not forget sunscreen, headwear, and sunglasses. Even in summer, a light wrap may be useful for air-conditioned spaces or evening walks.

Regardless of the season, it is always useful to have a few basic items with you that can be combined. For example, jeans or comfortable trousers, t-shirts, and long-sleeved shirts. If you plan to visit theatres or high-end restaurants, it is worth taking something more dressy. Remember that the weather in New York City can be unpredictable, especially in the transitional seasons, so it is always better to check the forecast immediately before your trip and be prepared for small surprises.