Water temperature and wave height on the beaches of New York

Climate characteristics of New York

New York City experiences a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) according to the Köppen climate classification, with some features of a humid continental climate (Dfa) due to its location. The city's weather is influenced by its coastal location, proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, and urban heat island effect.

1. Seasonal Overview

Winter (December to February):

Temperature: Ranges from -1°C to 8°C (30°F to 46°F).

Precipitation: Snowfall is common, with the potential for significant snowstorms ("Nor'easters"). Ice, sleet, and freezing rain can occur as well.

Characteristics: Cold, windy, and often wet. Snowy days add to the iconic winter atmosphere, especially during the holiday season.

Spring (March to May):

Temperature: Ranges from 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F).

Precipitation: Spring sees an increase in rainfall, with occasional thunderstorms.

Characteristics: Variable weather—early spring can feel like winter, while late spring can have warm, summer-like days. Flowers bloom, and parks like Central Park come to life.

Summer (June to August):

Temperature: Ranges from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), but heatwaves can push temperatures higher.

Precipitation: Humidity is high, and short, intense thunderstorms are frequent.

Characteristics: Hot, humid, and muggy, with occasional heatwaves. The heat is intensified by the urban heat island effect, making it feel warmer in the city than in surrounding rural areas.

Autumn (September to November):

Temperature: Ranges from 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F).

Precipitation: Moderate rainfall and decreasing humidity.

Characteristics: One of the most pleasant seasons, with mild weather and beautiful autumn foliage. It's a peak season for tourism due to the pleasant climate and scenic beauty.

2. Temperature and Weather Patterns

Average Annual Temperature: Around 13°C (55°F).

Warmest Month: July, with an average high of 29°C (84°F).

Coldest Month: January, with an average low of -1°C (30°F).

Heatwaves: Heatwaves are common in summer, with temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F).

Snowstorms: Snowstorms, including Nor'easters, occur in winter, sometimes disrupting transportation and daily life.

3. Precipitation and Humidity

Annual Rainfall: New York receives around 1,200 mm (47 inches) of precipitation annually.

Rainiest Months: May, June, and July often have the highest rainfall, with frequent summer thunderstorms.

Humidity: Humidity is highest in summer, making hot days feel even hotter. In winter, the air is generally drier.

Snowfall: Snowfall typically occurs from December to March, with an average of 60 cm (24 inches) of snow per year.

4. Winds and Storms

Wind Patterns: New York experiences coastal winds, especially in winter, making temperatures feel colder than they are.

Storms: The city is occasionally impacted by tropical storms and remnants of hurricanes during late summer and autumn.

Nor'easters: These powerful storms bring heavy snow, rain, and strong winds, affecting air and ground transportation.

5. Unique Climate Influences

Urban Heat Island Effect: The dense concentration of buildings and concrete in New York City retains heat, making it warmer than the surrounding rural areas.

Atlantic Ocean Influence: The proximity to the Atlantic Ocean moderates temperature extremes, making winters less severe than inland areas.

Climate Change Impact: Rising sea levels and increased frequency of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and floods, are notable risks for New York.

New York’s climate offers the full range of weather experiences, from cold, snowy winters to hot, humid summers. Each season has its own charm, drawing millions of tourists year-round.

Weather in New York by month

January

• Temperature: Low: -3°C (27°F), High: 4°C (39°F)
• Weather: Cold and often snowy, with occasional ice and sleet. Wind chill can make it feel even colder.
• Precipitation: Snow and rain are common, with an average of 78 mm (3 inches) of precipitation.
• Clothing: Heavy coats, scarves, gloves, and insulated boots are essential.

February

• Temperature: Low: -2°C (28°F), High: 6°C (43°F)
• Weather: Similar to January, with cold temperatures and snowfall, though signs of early spring may appear later in the month.
• Precipitation: 76 mm (3 inches) of precipitation, mostly snow and rain.
• Clothing: Heavy winter gear like jackets, hats, and gloves remain essential.

March

• Temperature: Low: 2°C (36°F), High: 11°C (52°F)
• Weather: A transitional month with unpredictable weather. Snow may occur early in March, but temperatures gradually rise.
• Precipitation: Around 90 mm (3.5 inches) of rain, with some snowfall early in the month.
• Clothing: Layers are important, with a mix of winter and early spring clothing.

April

• Temperature: Low: 7°C (45°F), High: 17°C (63°F)
• Weather: Spring arrives, bringing mild weather and blooming flowers. Occasional chilly days may still occur.
• Precipitation: 110 mm (4.3 inches) of rain, with frequent showers.
• Clothing: Light jackets, sweaters, and waterproof footwear are recommended.

May

• Temperature: Low: 13°C (55°F), High: 22°C (72°F)
• Weather: Pleasant and mild, with warm sunny days and cool evenings.
• Precipitation: 114 mm (4.5 inches) of rain, often in the form of short thunderstorms.
• Clothing: Light clothing like t-shirts, light sweaters, and comfortable shoes.

June

• Temperature: Low: 18°C (64°F), High: 27°C (81°F)
• Weather: Warm and sunny, with increased humidity as summer approaches.
• Precipitation: 112 mm (4.4 inches) of rain, with frequent summer thunderstorms.
• Clothing: Summer wear like t-shirts, shorts, and sandals are ideal, but a light jacket is useful for cooler evenings.

July

• Temperature: Low: 21°C (70°F), High: 29°C (84°F)
• Weather: Hot and humid, with occasional heatwaves making it feel much warmer.
• Precipitation: 110 mm (4.3 inches) of rain, often in the form of quick thunderstorms.
• Clothing: Light, breathable fabrics like cotton shirts, shorts, and sandals. Sunscreen is essential.

August

• Temperature: Low: 21°C (70°F), High: 28°C (82°F)
• Weather: Similar to July, with hot and humid conditions, though temperatures begin to cool slightly toward the end of the month.
• Precipitation: 102 mm (4 inches) of rain, with occasional thunderstorms.
• Clothing: Summer wear like t-shirts, shorts, and sandals, along with sunscreen and sunglasses.

September

• Temperature: Low: 17°C (63°F), High: 25°C (77°F)
• Weather: The start of autumn brings mild, sunny days and cool evenings.
• Precipitation: 94 mm (3.7 inches) of rain, with fewer thunderstorms than summer.
• Clothing: Light layers, such as t-shirts, sweaters, and jackets, are ideal.

October

• Temperature: Low: 11°C (52°F), High: 19°C (66°F)
• Weather: Cool and crisp, with beautiful autumn foliage.
• Precipitation: 94 mm (3.7 inches) of rain, with fewer rainy days than earlier months.
• Clothing: Light jackets, long-sleeve shirts, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

November

• Temperature: Low: 5°C (41°F), High: 13°C (55°F)
• Weather: Cooler weather with the possibility of frost at night.
• Precipitation: 93 mm (3.6 inches) of rain, and sometimes early snowfall.
• Clothing: Warm jackets, sweaters, and waterproof footwear are advisable.

December

• Temperature: Low: 0°C (32°F), High: 7°C (45°F)
• Weather: Cold and wintry, with snowfall possible, especially later in the month.
• Precipitation: 89 mm (3.5 inches) of precipitation, with rain, snow, or sleet.
• Clothing: Heavy coats, scarves, hats, gloves, and insulated boots are essential for the cold weather.