UPDATE: New York City is preparing for a bone-chilling New Year’s Eve, as forecasters predict temperatures will drop to around 30 degrees Fahrenheit during the iconic Times Square ball drop at midnight. This could mark the coldest celebration since 2017.
With an estimated one million revelers expected to pack Times Square, officials and meteorologists are urging attendees to bundle up. According to AccuWeather Meteorologist Jesse Ferrell, the wind chill could make it feel significantly colder, plunging temperatures into the teens.
The temperature is forecasted to slowly decrease throughout the day, starting from a high of 34 degrees on Wednesday afternoon. By midnight, as the ball drops, winds blowing at 10-15 mph will sweep through the city, intensifying the cold.
In addition to the frigid temperatures, light snow is anticipated on December 31, 2023, as a wave of low pressure moves through the area. The National Weather Service reports that snow flurries could begin around 9 PM and may continue until midnight, potentially mixing with confetti as the New Year arrives.
“If there is snow of any consequence during the ball drop, it will be the first since 2009,” Ferrell stated, highlighting the rarity of snow during this time. “A light dusting could create treacherous conditions for those traveling into the city.”
Travelers should exercise caution on the roads, particularly those coming from the north and west. Forecasters warn of potential slippery conditions on major highways, including interstates 78, 80, 81, and 90, as well as the Pennsylvania Turnpike and New York Thruway.
As midnight approaches, those attending are advised to find refuge away from intersections that expose them to harsh westerly winds. Ideal viewing spots may be along 7th Avenue or Broadway.
For those planning to celebrate in the city, it’s crucial to stay informed about changing weather conditions. The impending snow could create a festive yet challenging atmosphere, as the city gears up to welcome 2024 in a spectacular fashion, despite the bitter cold.
As the clock ticks down to midnight, make sure to dress warmly and keep an eye on the forecast for any last-minute updates!
