New York City rolled out of bed Thursday, March 12, to a low gray ceiling and air that felt more like a coastal drizzle than mid‑March. Fog and mist trimmed visibility in spots while temperatures hovered in the low to mid 50s. Rain is expected through the morning before a cold front sweeps through this afternoon, knocking highs down into the 40s and allowing showers to mix with or briefly flip to snow by mid to late afternoon.
Morning Fog And The Commute
Drivers and riders should plan on murky views and a slower start near coastal neighborhoods, along the East River, and on bridge approaches, where reduced visibility is likely. That means potential backups on roadways and damp, slick platforms during the morning rush. Behind the wheel, low beams, extra stopping distance, and a little more time for cross‑town trips and surface transit are smart moves today.
Rain, Snow And Gusty Northwest Winds
Rain and patchy fog are likely through about 2 p.m. Thursday, March 12, with the most likely window for a rain‑snow mix between roughly 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. as colder air pushes in. Temperatures should peak near 51°F early in the day, then slide toward the low 40s. Northwest winds will pick up through the afternoon, generally around 9 to 23 mph with gusts in the 25 to 30 mph range, which will make it feel raw and blustery.
Forecasters are also flagging dense‑fog advisories and Small Craft Advisories on coastal waters this morning, and they are already watching a much stronger frontal system for late Sunday into Monday that could bring an increased chance of an inch or more of rain along with strong coastal gusts, according to the National Weather Service.
What To Do Now
Build in extra time for errands and the commute, and if you can, nudge outdoor plans to later in the day. As temperatures fall, wet sidewalks and untreated steps can turn slick. For some context on this week’s run of fog and drizzle, check our March 7 update Thick Fog and Drizzle, and keep an eye on operator sites (MTA, ferry lines, airlines) for real‑time service changes as conditions evolve.
