From Bitter Chill to Mild, Wet Finish for New York City in 2024
New York City residents can expect a significant shift in the weather pattern as we bid farewell to 2024. The bitter chill that has dominated December is set to make way for milder temperatures and wet conditions in the coming days.
Chilly Start, Warm Finish
As the week progresses, the cold and dry weather will persist, keeping temperatures below the average high of 42 degrees for this time of year. The city has experienced an unusually cold December, with temperatures struggling to reach even the 40-degree mark in Central Park.
However, the frigid conditions are expected to give way to much milder weather by the weekend, with temperatures climbing into the 50s. New Year’s Eve promises to be a balmy affair, offering a respite from the frosty temperatures.
Wet Weekend Ahead
While the warmer temperatures may be a welcome change, they come with a downside – rain. The city is bracing for multiple rounds of showers over the weekend, starting shortly after midnight on Saturday. The initial showers may be spotty, but areas in northwest New Jersey and the Hudson Valley could see freezing rain due to colder surface temperatures.
Residents are advised to exercise caution as the rain could lead to slick roads and sidewalks in these areas. However, the temperatures are expected to rise above freezing by the afternoon, melting any accumulated ice.
River Flooding and New Year Showers
As the weekend progresses, the rain will become more steady, accompanied by even warmer temperatures reaching back into the 50s by Sunday. The combination of melting snow and overnight rainfall may result in minor river flooding in certain areas.
The final round of showers is expected to coincide with New Year’s Eve celebrations, with rainfall totaling around 1 to 2 inches across the city. This wet weather will help alleviate the drought conditions experienced earlier in the year.
Prepared for the New Year
For those planning to ring in the new year outside, especially in Times Square, it’s advisable to prepare for wet conditions. Despite the wet end to 2024, the city can look forward to a fresh start in 2025, albeit with temperatures dropping back near freezing by the following weekend.
