Honestly, if you're standing on a corner in Midtown right now, the number on your phone is basically lying to you.
Right now, the actual temperature in NYC is 35°F. But here’s the kicker: with a 9 mph wind coming off the water from the southwest, it feels more like 27°F. That eight-degree difference is the gap between "I can handle this" and "Why did I leave the house without a scarf?" It’s a classic January afternoon in the city where the humidity is sitting high at 84%, making the air feel heavy and damp.
What Is the Temperature in NYC Doing Right Now?
We’re currently seeing light rain showers across the five boroughs. It's that grey, misty New York vibe where everything looks like a scene from a moody indie movie. The high for today, Saturday, January 17, 2026, is expected to top out at 38°F, while the low will dip to 31°F tonight.
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What’s interesting about today is the transition. While we’re seeing rain at the moment, there's a 56% chance of light snow as the day progresses. The UV index is a flat zero, so don't worry about sunscreen—you won't be seeing the sun at all behind this thick cloud cover.
The Hour-by-Hour Reality
If you're planning to head out for dinner or a Broadway show, keep in mind that the precipitation chance stays fairly active. We're looking at:
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- Late Afternoon: Temperatures hovering near 35°F with continued light showers.
- Evening: A shift toward "cloudy" conditions as the rain tapers off, but the dampness remains.
- Overnight: Dropping toward that 31°F mark, which means anything wet on the ground might get a bit crunchy by morning.
Why NYC Temperatures Are So Deceptive
Most people check their weather app and think they're prepared. They aren't. New York City weather is a weird beast because of the "canyon effect."
Those massive skyscrapers create wind tunnels that can turn a gentle 9 mph breeze into a localized gale. Plus, the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Hudson River means we get hit with moisture that makes the cold "bite." It’s not a dry cold like you get in Denver. It’s a wet, bone-chilling cold that finds the one gap in your zipper and settles in for the day.
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The Polar Vortex Rumors
There’s been a lot of talk lately about a polar vortex stretching down into the US. While we aren't seeing the "Day After Tomorrow" levels of freezing just yet, the data shows we are about 2 degrees below the historical average for January. Usually, NYC sees highs around 40°F this time of year, so 35°F-38°F is definitely on the nippier side of the spectrum.
Survival Guide: What to Wear for 35°F in New York
If you are visiting or just commuting, layering is the only way to survive.
- The Base Layer: You want something that wicks moisture. Remember that 84% humidity? If you sweat while walking to the subway and then stand on a drafty platform, you’ll freeze.
- The Waterproof Shell: Today isn't a "big heavy wool coat" day—it's a "waterproof parka" day. The light rain and potential snow will soak through wool and make you miserable.
- Footwear: Leave the suede at home. Between the rain and the slushy snow forecast for later, your shoes are going to take a beating.
Looking Ahead to Tomorrow
Sunday looks like it might bring a bit more of the white stuff. The city has already issued travel advisories for 1-3 inches of snow citywide. If you have a flight out of JFK or LaGuardia, you’ll want to check your status early. The Department of Sanitation is already on "Snow Alert" because even a little bit of ice can turn the Brooklyn Bridge into a parking lot.
Actionable Tips for Navigating the Chill
- Check the "Feels Like": Always prioritize the wind chill over the actual temperature.
- Subway Strategy: Use the underground transfers as much as possible to avoid the wind tunnels on the street level.
- Battery Life: Cold temps like 35°F drain phone batteries faster than usual. Keep your phone in an internal pocket close to your body heat.
If you're out and about, keep an eye on the sky around mid-afternoon. That’s when the "light showers rain" condition is most likely to flirt with those "light snow" forecasts. Stay dry and keep that extra layer handy.