If you’ve been looking at the sky today and thinking "maybe I don't need the heavy puffer coat," honestly, hold that thought. New York is about to do that thing it does where it changes its mind every six hours.
The new york weekend forecast for January 16 through January 18, 2026, is basically a messy cocktail of rain, light snow, and those biting winds that make 40 degrees feel like 20. It’s not a blizzard. It’s not a "stay inside and eat your emergency canned goods" situation. But it is definitely a "your shoes are going to get ruined" kind of weekend.
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The Saturday Slush Situation
Saturday, January 17, is looking like the trickiest day of the bunch. We’re expecting a high of around 40°F, which sounds almost manageable until you see the 75% chance of precipitation.
The National Weather Service is calling for a "wintry mix." In NYC-speak, that translates to rain that eventually gets its act together and turns into snow. Most of this is happening during the day. By the time the sun goes down, it’ll be mostly cloudy with a low of 32°F.
The real problem? The "slush factor."
When it’s exactly 32 degrees at night after a day of rain and snow, those deep puddles at the corner of every Manhattan intersection turn into icy traps. If you're heading out to a Broadway show or a late dinner in Brooklyn, wear the boots with the grip. Seriously.
Sunday’s Cold Snap and Flurries
Sunday feels a bit more like "real" winter, though the temps are dropping.
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We are looking at a high of 34°F and a low of 22°F. There is still a lingering 20% chance of light snow, but it’s mostly just going to be cold and breezy. Southwest winds at 7 mph might not sound like much, but when you're standing on an elevated subway platform in Queens, you'll feel it.
The good news? It’s going to be clear with periodic clouds at night. If you’re a fan of that crisp, freezing-cold NYC air that makes your lungs feel like they're being cleaned by peppermint, Sunday night is your time to shine.
What This Means for Your Plans
If you had plans for a Central Park picnic, obviously, that’s a no-go. But the city doesn't stop for a little sleet.
The new york weekend forecast actually lines up with some pretty cool indoor stuff. The Under the Radar Festival is happening across 20 different venues right now. It’s a great excuse to duck into a theater and escape the dampness.
Also, it’s worth noting that Monday, January 19, is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. If you have the day off, the forecast for Monday is actually looking much better—sunny with a high of 33°F. It’ll be freezing, but at least it’ll be dry.
Quick Reality Check
- Friday night: Keep an eye out for snow showers. Low around 24°F.
- Saturday morning: The peak of the mess. Rain and snow mix.
- Saturday night: Dries out a bit, but stays right at the freezing mark.
- Sunday: The "Puffer Coat Required" day. Blustery and cold.
Survival Tips for a Messy Weekend
Don't trust the temperature alone. The humidity is hovering around 64% on Saturday, which means that damp cold is going to seep into your bones. Layers are non-negotiable.
If you're driving, be careful on the bridges. The I-95 corridor usually handles this kind of light dusting fine, but the transition from rain to snow on Saturday morning can create some slick spots before the salt trucks really get a handle on things.
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Basically, it’s a standard January weekend in the city. A little gray, a little wet, and a lot of New Yorkers complaining about it while still waiting 45 minutes for brunch.
Check your local subway status before you head out, too. Cold snaps and wintry mixes are prime time for "signal problems" and "track maintenance" delays.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Waterproof your footwear: If you have leather boots, hit them with a protector spray before Saturday morning.
- Charge your devices: Cold weather drains phone batteries faster, and you'll want it for checking those "train arriving" apps.
- Plan for indoors: Target museums or indoor markets like Chelsea Market or Industry City to stay dry during the Saturday slush.