New Yorkers woke up to light rain, thick fog and a damp chill in the air Monday, with temperatures stuck in the low 50s and visibility pared down to around four miles. The murky, low cloud start is only the opening act, with a wind driven finale expected to hit during the afternoon and evening commute on Monday, March 16, 2026.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
A Wind Advisory is in effect from 2 p.m. Monday, March 16, 2026, through 4 a.m. Tuesday, March 17, 2026, calling for south winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts that could reach 40 to 50 mph across the city. The strongest gusts are expected along waterfront areas and exposed bridges, and mariners are being told to prepare for Gale conditions on New York Harbor. The National Weather Service issued the advisory and is urging extra caution for high profile vehicles and anything outside that is not firmly secured.
Showers, Thunderstorms And Flooding Risk
On and off showers and scattered thunderstorms are likely through the day, with brief but intense downpours possible. Forecast rainfall totals generally range from 0.5 to 1.5 inches, and localized flooding could pop up in urban spots and other poor drainage locations. Fast moving bursts of heavy rain may sharply cut visibility and bog down travel, especially this afternoon and again tonight as a cold front pushes through.
How The Commute May Be Affected
Drivers should be ready for slower surface streets, the chance of downed tree limbs and occasional traffic signal issues in areas that see the heaviest rain and wind. Build in extra time for your commute or, if you have the option, consider working remotely to skip the worst of it. The MTA has previously banned empty tractor trailers from its bridges during high wind events, according to MTA Bridges and Tunnels, so check mta.info for real time service updates before heading out.
Tonight Into Tuesday
The cold front sweeps through late Monday into the early overnight hours, flipping winds to the west and knocking temperatures down. Lows will dip into the upper 30s Monday night, with a much cooler but mostly sunny Tuesday, March 17, 2026, on tap and afternoon highs only reaching the low 40s. Winds should gradually back off Tuesday morning, although it may stay on the breezy side along exposed shorelines.
Secure outdoor furniture and tie down loose items, avoid walking or parking under large tree limbs when gusts are strongest, and give yourself a cushion of extra travel time. For hazardous or life threatening situations, call 911. Non emergency problems can go to 311, and keep an eye on official updates from the National Weather Service and local agencies as the system moves through.
