You’d think a place like Old Westbury, with its Gatsby-era mansions and sprawling arboretums, would have weather that behaves as elegantly as its architecture. Honestly? It’s a bit more chaotic than that. If you’re planning a trip to the North Shore, or even if you’ve lived here for years, the way the local climate shifts might surprise you.
It’s currently 35°F outside. Southwest winds are kicking up at 10 mph, making it feel more like 27°F. We’ve got light rain falling right now, though the clouds are holding onto a 27% chance of more precipitation before the day is out.
Why Old Westbury Weather Still Matters for Your Weekend Plans
Most people look at a New York forecast and assume Old Westbury is just a carbon copy of Manhattan. It isn't. Because we’re tucked into that specific slice of Nassau County, about 82 feet above sea level on glacial till, we get these weird little micro-pockets of air.
Today, Saturday, January 17, we’re looking at a high of 40°F and a low of 32°F. It’s a messy mix of rain and snow. Southwest winds are hitting 12 mph, and there’s a heavy 88% chance of snow during the day. If you’re heading to the New York Institute of Technology campus or trying to walk the grounds at the Gardens, you’re basically walking into a slushie.
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Tomorrow, Sunday, January 18, doesn't offer much of a break. High of 34°F, low of 23°F. Snow showers are expected throughout the day and night with a 45% chance of accumulation. The wind shifts to the north at 7 mph, which usually brings that "bite" everyone complains about in January.
The 10-Day Outlook: A Deep Freeze is Coming
Kinda feels like winter finally decided to show up. Look at these numbers for the next few days:
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- Monday, Jan 19: It’ll be sunny, but don't let that fool you. The high is only 32°F, and with west winds at 14 mph, it’s going to be brutal.
- Tuesday, Jan 20: This is the real test. High of 23°F, low of 15°F. That’s "stay inside with a heated blanket" weather.
- Wednesday, Jan 21: Mostly cloudy with a high of 36°F. A slight warmup, but the low drops back to 16°F.
Basically, we're entering a stretch where the UV index is bottoming out at 0 or 1. You won't need sunscreen, but you’ll definitely need a heavy coat.
The Best Time to Visit (and When to Stay Away)
If you're coming for the "Gold Coast" experience, timing is everything. Most experts and locals agree the sweet spot is May through mid-October. That’s when you get those "comfortable" days—highs between 65°F and 86°F.
July is technically the hottest month, hitting an average high of 85°F. It gets humid, sure, but nothing like the concrete jungle of the city. The breezes here actually move.
September is secretly the best month. It’s the clearest time of year, with sunny skies about 58% of the time. The humidity drops, the wind stays around 12 mph, and the gardens look incredible.
What No One Tells You About Winter Here
Winter isn't just about the temperature. It's the wind. January is historically our windiest month, averaging 16.6 mph. Combine that with the fact that Old Westbury is the coldest spot on Long Island in January (average low of 27°F), and you've got a recipe for some serious chill.
Snow is a regular guest. We get about 23 inches a year. February usually takes the crown for the snowiest month, averaging 7.6 inches. If you’re driving near the LIRR stations or through the hilly parts of the village, those Nor'easters can turn the roads into ice rinks fast.
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Practical Next Steps for Your Visit
If you're heading out this week, honestly, just over-prepare. Here is what you actually need to do:
- Layer up for Tuesday: With a low of 15°F forecasted, thermal base layers aren't optional if you're commuting or walking on campus.
- Check the Snow/Rain Mix: Today’s 88% chance of snow means slush. Wear waterproof boots, not just "warm" ones.
- Plan for Early Sunsets: We’re gaining daylight, but it’s slow. Expect the sun to dip by 5:11 PM by the end of the month.
- Watch the Southwest Winds: Today and Thursday (where we hit 41°F) see gusts from the southwest. It feels warmer than a north wind, but it’ll still cut through a light jacket.
Stay warm out there. The sun is coming back eventually, but for the next 10 days, Old Westbury is firmly in the grip of a classic Long Island winter.