New York City

Clouds Clamp Down on NYC as Wednesday Washout Looms

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Published on February 17, 2026
Clouds Clamp Down on NYC as Wednesday Washout LoomsSource: Unsplash/ Danika Perkinson

New York City is experiencing 36°F and overcast skies this morning, with light southwest winds keeping temperatures just above freezing. A high near 46°F is expected this afternoon, with occasional sun and mostly dry conditions for the midday commute.

Earlier concerns about patchy freezing drizzle have mostly subsided across the five boroughs, though some northern and western outskirts experienced light icy conditions overnight. Travel impacts in the city are expected to be minimal, but commuters are advised to allow an extra five to ten minutes for short trips and watch for slippery spots on shaded sidewalks.

Wednesday Rain Expected

Rain is likely on Wednesday, with showers expected to move in around the morning commute and hang around into the evening. Most neighborhoods should see light totals, roughly one tenth to one quarter of an inch, with a steadier drizzle setting up near the waterfront. Interior sections could see a brief mix with sleet or snow late Wednesday night as the precipitation winds down, while metro and coastal areas are expected to stay above freezing. That breakdown comes from the latest guidance from the National Weather Service.

Late-week Wild Card

Things get fuzzier later in the week. Forecasters are still wrestling with how far north a frontal boundary will park itself on Friday, a detail that will decide whether some neighborhoods get mostly rain or more of a rain-and-snow mix. For context on this mixed-bag pattern, see yesterday’s coverage of the light snowfall on Washington's Birthday.

What To Do

Carry an umbrella on Wednesday and allow extra time for slower driving and bus trips on wet roads. Subways are expected to be less affected, but surface transit could experience delays. Boaters and shoreline anglers are advised to avoid small vessels while seas remain rough into early Wednesday, and those planning outdoor activities later in the week should monitor local forecasts as conditions develop.