The New York City weather forecast for the final week of December 2025 shows a shift from the recent mild temperatures toward a colder, more wintry pattern. As of Thursday, December 26, 2025, the city is experiencing partly cloudy skies, brisk winds, and temperatures hovering in the upper 40s, with cooler air expected to settle in by the weekend.
Meteorologists expect a mix of sunshine and scattered clouds through the next few days, followed by a notable temperature drop as Arctic air moves into the Northeast. Residents planning post-holiday travel should prepare for colder mornings, breezy afternoons, and a slight chance of precipitation early next week.
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Current Weather Conditions in New York City
As of Thursday morning, conditions across the five boroughs are seasonably cool but calm. Central Park recorded a morning low near 41°F, with highs expected to reach 47°F by the afternoon. Winds are steady from the northwest at 10 to 15 mph, adding a crisp chill to the air.
Humidity levels are around 55%, with good visibility and stable barometric pressure — ideal conditions for travelers and those heading outdoors for post-holiday activities. The air quality index remains in the “Good” range, providing comfortable conditions for most residents.
Detailed 7-Day Forecast for New York City
| Day | Conditions | High / Low (°F) | Wind | Precipitation Chance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday (Dec 26) | Partly Cloudy | 47 / 39 | NW 10–15 mph | 10% |
| Friday (Dec 27) | Mostly Sunny | 45 / 36 | WNW 8–12 mph | 0% |
| Saturday (Dec 28) | Increasing Clouds | 44 / 35 | SW 10–15 mph | 20% |
| Sunday (Dec 29) | Cloudy, Chance of Showers | 46 / 37 | S 10–20 mph | 40% |
| Monday (Dec 30) | Colder, Clearing | 42 / 32 | NW 15–25 mph | 10% |
| Tuesday (Dec 31) | Mostly Sunny | 39 / 30 | NW 10–15 mph | 0% |
| Wednesday (Jan 1) | Clear and Cold | 38 / 28 | N 5–10 mph | 0% |
Weekend Outlook: Colder Air Returns
After a relatively mild December compared to seasonal averages, temperatures across New York City are expected to trend downward through the weekend. A weak cold front will move through the region late Saturday into Sunday, bringing increased cloud cover and a slight chance of light rain.
By Sunday night, a surge of cold, dry air from Canada will push into the Tri-State area. Highs will dip into the low 40s by Monday, with overnight lows near freezing. Wind chills could make it feel closer to 25°F during early morning hours.
Those planning outdoor events or travel should bundle up, especially late Sunday through Tuesday, when northwest winds will increase behind the front.
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day Forecast
As the city prepares to ring in 2026, all eyes turn to the Times Square celebration — one of the world’s most-watched New Year’s Eve events. The current forecast calls for dry conditions, clear skies, and temperatures around 36°F at midnight on December 31.
Light northwest breezes will add to the chill, but visibility and comfort should be excellent for the millions expected to attend. The weather looks ideal for fireworks, concerts, and outdoor celebrations.
New Year’s Day, on Wednesday, January 1, 2026, will be sunny but cold, with highs near 38°F and lows dipping into the upper 20s overnight. Roads and public spaces should remain clear and dry.
Regional Weather Patterns Affecting the City
Meteorologists are tracking a high-pressure system currently positioned over the Great Lakes, which is expected to move eastward toward New York City this weekend. This system will bring calm and stable weather on Friday, followed by increased clouds ahead of the next cold front.
The upcoming front, arriving late Saturday, is part of a broader jet stream pattern bringing cold Canadian air into the Northeast. Cities across the region — including Philadelphia, Boston, and Hartford — will experience similar temperature drops and gusty winds through Monday.
Despite the chill, no significant snow or ice is forecast for New York City through early January. The city’s snowfall total so far this winter remains below average, with only a trace recorded earlier in December.
December Weather Recap
December 2025 has been marked by variable conditions, ranging from record warmth earlier in the month to cooler, more typical winter days approaching the holidays.
Key statistics so far this month include:
- Average high temperature: 47°F (about 3 degrees above normal)
- Average low temperature: 36°F
- Total precipitation: 2.4 inches
- Snowfall: Less than 0.5 inch
While the month began with temperatures in the 50s and even low 60s, a mid-month cold front brought a temporary return to winter conditions. Overall, the trend has leaned mild, but forecasts suggest a shift toward colder weather as the new year begins.
What to Expect in Early January
The first week of January 2026 is expected to feature below-average temperatures across much of the Northeast. Extended outlooks from the National Weather Service (NWS) indicate that a colder-than-normal air mass will dominate the region through the first week of the month.
For New York City, this means daytime highs mainly in the upper 30s to low 40s, with overnight lows near 30°F. The pattern will likely remain dry through January 3, though a weak coastal disturbance could bring light precipitation around January 4–5.
Snow lovers may have to wait a bit longer for measurable accumulation, as current atmospheric conditions favor dry, cold air rather than moisture-rich systems.
Tips for Residents and Travelers
With colder weather on the way, residents and visitors should take precautions to stay safe and comfortable. Here are a few practical recommendations for the coming week:
- Dress in layers: Temperatures may fluctuate between 30°F and 50°F. Layers help regulate body heat.
- Prepare for wind: Breezes off the Hudson River and East River can make the air feel colder than it is.
- Check for travel updates: Airports such as JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark may experience minor wind-related delays over the weekend.
- Protect pets and plants: Bring animals indoors during overnight lows near freezing, and cover sensitive outdoor plants.
- Use caution on bridges and highways: Early morning frost could develop when temperatures drop below 32°F.
For New Yorkers commuting by subway or on foot, wearing insulated footwear and gloves is especially important during the morning and evening hours.
Looking Back: Historical Late-December Weather in NYC
Late December in New York City typically brings highs in the low 40s and lows near freezing. The city’s coldest December 26 on record occurred in 1980, when temperatures dropped to 12°F. The warmest December 26 occurred in 2015, when Central Park reached 66°F.
This year’s pattern sits comfortably between those extremes — chilly but manageable, with conditions favorable for travel and outdoor activities.
Historically, measurable snowfall around this time of year occurs about once every four years, but 2025 appears to be on track for a snow-free holiday week.
Air Quality and Visibility
New York City’s air quality remains healthy this week, aided by cooler temperatures and steady northwesterly winds. The Air Quality Index (AQI) across all boroughs is currently between 30 and 45, within the “Good” range.
Visibility has been excellent, with views from observatories such as One World Trade Center and the Empire State Building stretching for miles under clear skies. This trend is expected to continue through the weekend, except during brief periods of cloud cover on Sunday.
Marine and Coastal Weather
For those traveling near the waterfront or using ferry services, conditions on the Hudson River, East River, and New York Harbor are stable. Marine forecasts call for calm waters through Friday, followed by slightly choppy conditions Sunday night as winds increase.
Tides are moderate, and no coastal flooding is anticipated. Water temperatures remain around 45°F, typical for late December, so caution is advised for anyone engaging in winter boating or fishing.
Summary: A Calm but Chilly End to 2025
In summary, New York City’s weather pattern for the remainder of the week favors cool, mostly dry conditions. While colder air will move in by Sunday night, no major storms or snow events are expected. Skies will clear for New Year’s Eve, setting the stage for a crisp, dry celebration across the city.
Residents can expect winter’s true chill to return in early January, but for now, the forecast remains stable and travel-friendly — a welcome break for New Yorkers after a busy holiday season.
Bundle up, enjoy the clear skies, and share your New Year’s Eve plans below — how will you be celebrating under the chilly New York City sky?