The New York City weather forecast for the final week of December 2025 shows a notable cooldown across the five boroughs as winter finally tightens its grip on the Northeast. After several mild days leading up to Christmas, temperatures are now sliding back toward seasonal norms, with crisp winds and clear skies dominating the region. As of Thursday, December 26, 2025, residents are waking up to partly cloudy conditions and afternoon highs in the mid-40s, while colder air begins to build for the weekend and early 2026.
Current Conditions Across the City
Thursday begins on a brisk but pleasant note. Temperatures at sunrise hovered around 41°F in Central Park, climbing toward 46°F to 48°F in the afternoon under filtered sunshine. Northwest winds are steady at 10 to 15 mph, occasionally gusting near 20 mph, making it feel a few degrees cooler.
Humidity is moderate, holding near 55%, and visibility remains excellent. The sky over Manhattan alternates between bright patches and thin clouds drifting in from the Great Lakes. Air quality levels across all boroughs are healthy, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the “Good” category.
The combination of dry air, light breezes, and sunshine provides ideal conditions for outdoor post-holiday activities. Whether walking in Bryant Park, ice skating at Rockefeller Center, or exploring Central Park, New Yorkers can expect calm weather through Thursday evening.
Seven-Day Outlook for New York City
| Date | Condition | High / Low (°F) | Wind Direction | Chance of Precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thu, Dec 26 | Partly Cloudy | 47 / 39 | NW 10–15 mph | 10% |
| Fri, Dec 27 | Sunny | 45 / 36 | WNW 8–12 mph | 0% |
| Sat, Dec 28 | Cloudy Late | 44 / 35 | SW 10–15 mph | 20% |
| Sun, Dec 29 | Scattered Showers | 46 / 37 | S 10–20 mph | 40% |
| Mon, Dec 30 | Clearing, Breezy | 42 / 32 | NW 15–25 mph | 10% |
| Tue, Dec 31 | Mostly Clear | 39 / 30 | NW 10–15 mph | 0% |
| Wed, Jan 1 | Sunny, Cold | 38 / 28 | N 5–10 mph | 0% |
The next seven days bring a blend of calm, sunny days and a few short-lived periods of clouds or showers. Overall, the pattern remains stable and free from major storm systems, making for smooth travel across the region.
Friday and Saturday: Calm Before the Cold Front
Friday continues the week’s quiet trend, with sunshine dominating and temperatures peaking in the mid-40s. Light northwest winds keep the air feeling crisp but not uncomfortably cold. This stretch of calm weather is perfect for shoppers, tourists, and anyone enjoying a holiday break.
By Saturday, clouds will gradually thicken as a weak cold front approaches from the west. Temperatures will remain steady around 44°F, with evening lows near 35°F. Forecasters expect limited precipitation — only a small chance of drizzle or light rain in the evening.
For anyone traveling this weekend, road and air conditions should remain favorable through Saturday afternoon before the next shift in the weather pattern arrives late Sunday.
Sunday: Moisture Returns with Scattered Showers
A mild, southerly breeze will develop Sunday as moisture flows into the area from the Atlantic. Temperatures could climb slightly above normal, topping out near 46°F, but increased humidity and cloud cover will make the day feel cooler.
Light rain or drizzle may develop during the afternoon and persist into the evening. Accumulations will be minimal — generally less than a tenth of an inch — but sidewalks could become damp and slippery. Travelers heading home after the holidays should watch for brief delays at JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark Liberty Airport, as visibility may briefly drop during showers.
Once the front passes Sunday night, colder and drier air from Canada will sweep into the city, signaling a shift to more typical winter conditions.
Early Week Outlook: Windy and Cold
The new workweek begins with a noticeable chill. Monday’s highs will struggle to reach 42°F, and brisk northwest winds between 15–25 mph will make it feel closer to 30°F during the morning and evening.
Skies will gradually clear throughout the day, setting the stage for a cold but bright Tuesday and Wednesday. With drier air in place, overnight lows will fall near freezing, and frost is expected across the outer boroughs.
For commuters, the colder air may lead to slick spots during the early morning hours, especially on bridges and overpasses. However, no major snow or ice is expected at this time.
New Year’s Eve Forecast: Dry and Clear for the Countdown
The weather is shaping up perfectly for one of New York City’s biggest annual traditions — the Times Square Ball Drop. Conditions late Tuesday night are forecast to be dry, clear, and cold, with temperatures around 35°F at midnight.
A light northwest breeze will add a chill, making it feel closer to 30°F, but skies will remain clear enough for fireworks, live performances, and citywide celebrations. Those attending outdoor events should dress in layers, wear insulated gloves, and bring hand warmers, as the cold will linger throughout the night.
Public transportation will operate on a modified schedule for the holiday, but no weather-related disruptions are expected.
New Year’s Day 2026 looks sunny and tranquil, with highs near 38°F and lows dipping into the upper 20s overnight. It will be a cold start to the year but one that feels classically New York — bright skies, crisp air, and plenty of winter spirit.
Regional Weather Influence
This week’s temperature fluctuations are tied to shifting air masses across the eastern United States. A strong high-pressure system over the Midwest is pushing eastward, bringing stable, dry air through Friday. By Saturday night, a weak cold front attached to a low-pressure system over the Great Lakes will pass through the region, introducing clouds and scattered rain.
Behind that front, Arctic air will spill southward, reinforcing a colder trend through the first week of January. The jet stream pattern now dipping into the Northeast favors more frequent cold surges — a sign that winter is settling in for the long haul.
Areas north and west of the city, such as the Hudson Valley and northern New Jersey, could see a few flurries early next week, but accumulation is not expected within the five boroughs.
December’s Weather Recap
December 2025 has been a month of contrasts for New York City. Early weeks brought record warmth, while the final stretch has returned to more familiar winter temperatures.
Monthly highlights:
- Average High: 47°F (about 3° above normal)
- Average Low: 36°F
- Total Precipitation: 2.4 inches
- Snowfall: Trace amounts only
The city has yet to see its first measurable snowfall of the winter season, continuing a trend of delayed snow events seen in several recent years. Historically, New York averages its first inch of snow by mid-December, but this year’s milder conditions have postponed that milestone.
Air Quality and Visibility Remain Excellent
With steady northwest winds and lower humidity, air quality across New York City remains healthy. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has stayed below 50 for most of the week, indicating “Good” conditions for outdoor activities.
Visibility is particularly strong, making this a great time for skyline views from the Empire State Building, One Vanderbilt Observatory, or Brooklyn Bridge Park. City photographers and tourists alike will find bright, crisp light conditions perfect for winter photos through the weekend.
Marine and Coastal Forecast
Those traveling by ferry or spending time near the water can expect mostly calm conditions through Saturday. Seas in New York Harbor, the Hudson River, and the East River will remain under two feet, with gentle currents.
As the front approaches late Sunday, winds may strengthen to 20 knots, creating slight chop on the water. No coastal flooding or significant tidal surges are anticipated, and water temperatures remain steady near 45°F — typical for late December.
Safety and Travel Tips
As the weather cools into the weekend and early next week, residents should prepare for brisk winds and frosty mornings. Here are a few practical reminders:
- Layer clothing: Combine a thermal base layer, mid-weight sweater, and insulated coat for comfort in fluctuating temperatures.
- Stay alert for icy patches: Overnight frost could form on bridges, sidewalks, and bike lanes.
- Monitor airport conditions: While major delays are unlikely, gusty winds on Monday may cause brief disruptions.
- Protect outdoor plumbing: Temperatures near freezing overnight could lead to frozen pipes if left uninsulated.
- Check on pets and vulnerable neighbors: Ensure proper shelter and warmth during cold nights.
With proper preparation, city life will carry on smoothly even as winter’s chill returns.
Looking Ahead: Early January Pattern
Long-range forecasts indicate a colder, drier pattern dominating the start of 2026. High temperatures will likely remain in the upper 30s to low 40s through the first week of January, while overnight lows dip into the 20s.
The extended forecast shows limited chances for major precipitation, although weak coastal systems may brush the Mid-Atlantic region during the second week of January. For now, the city’s focus remains on clear skies and seasonal cold — ideal conditions for the beginning of a new year.
With 2025 wrapping up under clear skies and brisk air, New Yorkers can welcome 2026 knowing the city’s winter rhythm has finally arrived. Bundle up, enjoy the crisp weather, and share how you’ll be celebrating the season’s first true chill in the comments below.