UPDATE: New York City is preparing for a significant weather event as forecasters warn that this New Year’s Eve could be the coldest in nearly a decade. With around 1 million people expected in Times Square to celebrate the arrival of 2026, attendees are advised to dress warmly as temperatures are projected to plummet to around 30°F by midnight.
Temperatures will drop from a daytime high of 34°F on December 31, 2025, creating a chilling atmosphere for the iconic ball drop. AccuWeather Meteorologist Jesse Ferrell stated, “If the weather pans out as forecast, the midnight temperature will be the coldest since the cusp of 2017 and 2018, when it was a frigid 9°F.” The combination of dry air and westerly winds between 10-15 mph will make it feel significantly colder, with wind chill pushing temperatures into the teens and 20s.
As festivities commence, a wave of low pressure is expected to usher in light snow starting at 9 PM, potentially mixing with the celebratory confetti at the stroke of midnight. The National Weather Service confirms that snow showers and flurries are likely, with “more widespread light snow through sunrise Thursday.” If conditions align, this could mark the first significant snowfall during the Times Square ball drop since 2009, when 1.5 inches of snow fell.
Those traveling to the city or surrounding areas are advised to exercise caution. The impending storm may disrupt travel, particularly for those heading in from the north and west, where heavy lake-effect snow could complicate road conditions. Key highways, including interstates 78, 80, 81, 90, and major routes like the Pennsylvania Turnpike and the New York Thruway, could see slippery conditions.
According to AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Dave Dombek, “Farther to the east, a weak storm may form offshore, potentially impacting parts of Long Island and southeastern New England from Wednesday night to Thursday.” If these systems merge, New York City could receive a coating to an inch of snow overnight, adding to the hazards on the roads.
As New Yorkers and visitors prepare for festivities, the cold weather and possible snowfall make this New Year’s Eve one to remember. Officials urge everyone to stay bundled up and to stay informed about the latest weather updates. For those celebrating in Times Square, finding shelter from the wind along 7th Avenue or Broadway is recommended to mitigate the effects of the bitter wind chill.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops!
