New York City's Four Seasons: A Weather Guide

NYC experiences four distinct seasons, each with personality:

❄️ Winter (Dec–Feb)

• Avg High: 39–43°F (4–6°C); Low: 27–30°F (-3 to -1°C).
• Snow: ~30" annually (variable); nor'easters bring 12–24"+ storms.
• Daylight: 9h 15m (solstice). Wind chill brutal.

🌱 Spring (Mar–May)

• Avg High: 50–72°F (10–22°C); volatile swings.
• Rain: Frequent showers; April wettest month.
• Cherry blossoms (Branch Brook Park, Sakura Park), tulips, street trees bloom.
• Daylight: 12h → 15h.

☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug)

• Avg High: 80–85°F (27–29°C); heat waves >95°F common.
• Humidity: High (dewpoints 65–75°F) → feels hotter.
• Thunderstorms: Afternoon/evening, sometimes severe.
• Daylight: 15h 5m (solstice). Rooftops, parks, beaches (Coney, Rockaway) peak.

🍂 Autumn (Sep–Nov)

• Avg High: 75→54°F (24→12°C); crisp, clear "sweater weather."
• Foliage: Peak late Oct–early Nov (Central Park, Hudson Valley, Palisades).
• Low humidity; best walking weather.
• Daylight: 12h → 9h 45m.

Microclimates: Urban heat island (Manhattan +2–5°F), coastal breezes (broadway vs. river), park cool islands.