New Yorkers stepped out into full-on spring warmth early Thursday, April 16, with temperatures already in the low 70s at city observation sites. Skies stay mostly clear and the heat builds through the day, with many neighborhoods expected to top out in the mid 80s this afternoon and a muggy, late-spring feel away from the shoreline.
Forecasts were nudged higher early Thursday after meteorologists raised high temperature guidance for coastal New York and Connecticut. The National Weather Service now expects widespread mid 80s across much of the metro area. For a look at how this compares with the previous outlook, see our April 15 coverage of the Big Apple sizzling in April.
Afternoon Heat and Winds
Southwest winds pick up through the afternoon, generally around 6 to 14 mph with gusts up to about 20 mph. That breeze helps push inland temperatures into the 80s. Humidity will make it feel a bit warmer than the numbers suggest, so many boroughs are in for a sticky late-day commute.
Tonight Into Friday
Thursday night, April 16, brings only a slight chance of a few spotty showers, mainly between about 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. Skies then turn partly clear, with lows holding in the upper 60s. Friday, April 17, stays milder but turns more unsettled, as a chance of showers develops after midmorning. Highs land near 77°F with northwest winds around 10 mph.
Weekend Turnaround
Saturday delivers a noticeable cool-down, with afternoon highs in the low 60s. A stronger cold front sweeps through on Sunday, April 19, bringing likely periods of rain and gusty winds. Behind that system, temperatures drop sharply, and some interior spots could approach or slip below freezing by Monday night, setting up a much colder start to the new week.
Impacts and Planning
If you are out this afternoon or evening, it is worth tossing both a water bottle and a compact umbrella in your bag. Brief heavy downpours or an isolated thunderstorm could pop up and cause spotty delays for transit and outdoor events. Boaters and anyone with plans along the waterfront should keep an eye on marine forecasts for Sunday into Monday, when seas and winds are most likely to turn rougher.
