New York City Weather

New York City has a humid subtropical weather. Proximity to the Atlantic Ocean has a drastic impact on the weather of the city. In addition to this, the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation, a 70-year-long warming and cooling cycle in the Atlantic that influences the frequency and severity of hurricanes and coastal storms, also affects the weather of the city.

During the month of November, cold weather begins to set in the city. Wintry weather and snowfall sets in from December onwards and continues till the end of February. The city's coldest month is January, when the temperature averages 0.1 °Celsius. Since snow, sleet and freezing rains are common during these times, temperatures in winter can drop to -12° Celsius.

With temperatures averaging 10 to 15° Celsius, spring in the city is mild. Although the official start of spring occurs in March, some form of wintry weather is still experienced in this month at times. In spring, thunderstorms are common in the city.

The transitional month in New York City is April, when winter has faded and spring starts setting in. Late season snow storms and rains are sometimes seen during this month. Spring in the city extends till early June. During this season, the temperature in the city ranges from as low as 10 to 15° Celsius in March to as high as 26-28° Celsius in early June.

With temperatures commonly exceeding 32° Celsius, summers in New York are hot and humid. In July and August, humidity levels increase. During this time, the city commonly experiences thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes. From September the weather begins to cool down.

The period from September to late October is autumn in New York City, during which temperatures fluctuate quickly. During these times, temperature ranges from 16° Celsius to 24° Celsius. Spring is the wettest season and February is the driest month in the city. Average annual precipitation in the city is 1,262 mm, while snow averages 71.4 cm.

The best time to visit to New York City is fall (September to November) and spring (April to June). This is because during this period temperatures are mild and the weather is pleasant.