If you’ve ever stood on the Riverview Boardwalk in January, you know that the weather in Edgewater NJ isn’t just "New Jersey weather." It is a specific, localized microclimate dictated by the massive, moving body of water that is the Hudson River and the towering basalt cliffs of the Palisades. People think because we are a stone's throw from Manhattan, the weather is identical. Honestly? It isn't.
The river acts like a giant thermal battery. In the winter, the water often stays slightly warmer than the freezing air, which can occasionally turn what should be a snowstorm into a slushy mess. Conversely, in the summer, that same water provides a breeze that makes Edgewater feel five degrees cooler than the concrete canyons of Midtown. But don't let the breeze fool you. When the humidity hits 88%, like it’s doing today, January 17, 2026, it feels heavy.
Right now, we’re looking at a temperature of 34°F. It feels like 28°F. There are light snow showers drifting across the river. It’s pretty, sure, but it’s the kind of damp cold that gets into your bones.
Why the Hudson River Changes Everything
Most weather apps give you a general Bergen County forecast. That’s a mistake for Edgewater. Because we are basically at sea level—tucked right against the base of the cliffs—we deal with "river effect" conditions.
The Palisades act as a physical wall. They block some of the western winds, but they also trap moisture. When a storm system rolls in from the Atlantic, it hits the cliffs and lingers. This is why you’ll see fog so thick you can’t see the Little Red Lighthouse across the water, even when it’s clear up in Fort Lee or Cliffside Park.
✨ Don't miss: Weather Forecast Calumet MI: What Most People Get Wrong About Keweenaw Winters
- Winter Chill: Highs today are hitting 37°F, but the southwest wind at 7 mph brings a bite.
- Summer Heat: July is the real test. Averages hit 85°F, but the humidity from the river can make the heat index soar.
- Precipitation: We get about 49 inches of rain a year. That’s more than the national average.
The river isn't just for looking at; it’s a weather machine. During Hurricane Sandy, the winds topped 76 mph here. That wasn't just a storm; it was a redesign of the coastline. About 38% of Edgewater is in a Special Flood Hazard Area. If you live east of River Road, you don’t just check the temperature; you check the tide.
Seasonal Shifts and the Best Time to Visit
If you’re planning a trip to City Place or looking to walk the waterfront, timing is everything. January and February are the coldest months. We’re currently in the thick of it. Tomorrow, Sunday, January 18, expects snow showers with a high of 34°F and a low of 22°F. It's not exactly "strolling weather."
Most locals will tell you that May and June are the sweet spots. The flowers on the Palisades are blooming, and the temperature sits comfortably between 65°F and 80°F. September is another winner. It’s actually the clearest month of the year, with sunny skies about 63% of the time.
Honestly, the transition seasons are where Edgewater shines. The fall foliage on the cliffs reflects off the Hudson, and the air loses that summer "soupiness." By November, though, it’s back to jackets, with highs dropping to 52°F.
🔗 Read more: January 14, 2026: Why This Wednesday Actually Matters More Than You Think
Dealing with the Edgewater "Micro-Winter"
Living here means knowing that the weather in Edgewater NJ can change between the Whole Foods parking lot and the northern end of town. Today’s light snow showers are a perfect example. We have a 65% chance of snow during the day, dropping to 25% tonight. It’s light, but with 76% humidity, it makes the roads slick.
- The River Road Splash: When it rains hard, River Road floods. Specifically near 880 River Road. The outfall to the Hudson often backs up.
- The Wind Tunnel: Between the buildings and the cliffs, wind can whip up unexpectedly. Today’s 7 mph southwest wind is mild, but Monday will see 12 mph gusts.
- The Ice Factor: Because we are at the base of the cliffs, runoff from the heights above can freeze on our roads even if the air temperature is slightly above 32°F.
Next week looks like a bit of a rollercoaster. Tuesday, January 20, is going to be a bright, sunny day, but the high is only 23°F. That is "stay inside and order takeout" weather. The low will hit 12°F. If you have pipes near an exterior wall, especially in some of the older buildings near the water, that’s when you need to be careful.
Real Talk on Flooding Risks
We have to talk about the water. It’s the elephant in the room. About 56.9% of properties in Edgewater are at extreme risk of flooding over the next 30 years. This isn't just about hurricanes. "Sunny day flooding" happens when high tides combine with sea-level rise.
The National Weather Service uses the station at The Battery—about 9 miles away—to help gauge our risks. While we aren't at the mercy of the open ocean, the tidal Hudson moves with the Atlantic. If there’s a storm surge in the harbor, it’s coming to Edgewater.
💡 You might also like: Black Red Wing Shoes: Why the Heritage Flex Still Wins in 2026
Actionable Tips for Navigating Edgewater Weather
Don't just rely on the thermometer. If you’re living or working here, you need a different strategy.
- Check the Dew Point: In the summer, if the dew point is over 65°F, stay near the AC. Edgewater gets "sticky" fast.
- Invest in a High-Quality Windbreaker: The river breeze is constant. Even on a 60°F day in April, that wind off the water makes it feel like 50°F.
- Flood Insurance is Non-Negotiable: If you’re buying or renting on the east side of River Road, check the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). Some areas are between 10 and 15 feet.
- Watch the Palisades Runoff: After a heavy rain, the "waterfalls" coming off the cliffs aren't just pretty—they contribute to localized street flooding that isn't always reflected on big-city news.
The weather in Edgewater NJ is a beautiful, sometimes frustrating mix of urban conditions and raw river power. Keep an eye on the wind direction. Southwest winds, like we have today, usually mean more moisture. Northwest winds, which we’ll see by next Saturday, bring that crisp, dry Canadian air.
For the next few days, keep the snow shovel handy and your boots by the door. Sunday’s 45% chance of snow showers isn't a blizzard, but it's enough to mess up your commute. Stay warm, watch the tides, and remember that the river always has the final say.