New Yorkers got a rude spring wake-up on Tuesday morning, April 21, 2026, with clear skies, a brisk north wind and temperatures hovering near freezing. Readings dipped into the mid-30s at local observation sites, and a Freeze Warning remains in effect for many inland suburbs through 9 a.m. EDT Tuesday, April 21, 2026, so tender plants and exposed outdoor plumbing should be protected now. The sun makes a decent comeback this afternoon, but highs will only reach the upper 40s to around 50°F before a wind shift pulls in milder air tonight.
Late Night Showers
After a bright but breezy day, clouds and showers slide in late Tuesday night. Expect rain to develop after about 11 p.m. Tuesday and carry into Wednesday morning, with overall chances near 60 percent and rainfall amounts staying on the lighter side. According to the National Weather Service, overnight totals are likely to remain under a tenth of an inch, with Wednesday possibly adding a tenth to a quarter of an inch in spots as milder air moves in. Temperatures will climb from the mid-40s Tuesday night into the 50s Wednesday, so everything that falls will be rain, not snow or sleet.
Boaters Should Watch
The National Weather Service has issued a Small Craft Advisory for late tonight into Wednesday covering the ocean waters and the Long Island south-shore bays. Southerly gusts and choppy seas could approach 25 knots in some eastern waters Wednesday afternoon, so small-boat operators and even regular ferry riders should check local notices before committing to a trip.
Milder Midweek
Wednesday will feel a bit less harsh, with highs near 55°F, plenty of clouds and some lingering morning showers before things dry out. Thursday looks like the pick of the week, with highs in the upper 60s in the city and lower 70s inland. That will likely be the best window for outdoor plans before a more unsettled weekend moves in and spotty showers start popping up again.
Commute And Plants
Suburban roads may be slick early Tuesday morning where temperatures slipped below freezing, while city streets will climb above freezing sooner. An umbrella will come in handy for the late-night commute into Wednesday as showers arrive. Gardeners should keep potted plants covered until the Freeze Warning expires, and boat owners would be wise to respect the marine advisory before heading offshore.
