New York, New York – January 2026 finished colder and snowier than normal across the New York City metro area, continuing a below-average temperature trend into the heart of meteorological winter and affecting daily life and travel along corridors such as Interstate 95, Interstate 278, and Interstate 495.
According to the National Weather Service New York office, average temperatures across the region’s six primary climate sites ranged from 2.3 to 3.6 degrees below normal for the month. Central Park recorded an average temperature of 30.4°F, while LaGuardia averaged 30.8°F, Islip 29.6°F, Newark 30.1°F, Kennedy Airport 29.8°F, and Bridgeport 28.7°F.
These rankings placed January 2026 among the 20 to 30 coldest Januaries on record at several sites, reinforcing a persistent cold pattern that has defined the opening months of winter. Despite the colder conditions, precipitation totals were generally below normal, with most locations receiving 68 to 76 percent of average January precipitation, ranking the month among the drier Januaries historically.
Snowfall, however, told a different story. All climate sites reported above-normal snowfall, with totals ranging from 13 to over 21 inches. Bridgeport recorded the highest total at 21.4 inches, while Newark logged 16.7 inches. Snowfall departures ranged from +4 to nearly +13 inches, reflecting multiple snow-producing systems despite limited liquid precipitation.
The National Weather Service noted that the combination of colder air and efficient snow-producing setups contributed to frequent winter travel impacts, particularly along major highways during snow events and post-storm refreeze periods.
Climatologists emphasize that January’s data is preliminary but consistent with a broader winter pattern favoring below-normal temperatures. With February beginning under continued cold conditions, officials advise residents and commuters to remain prepared for ongoing winter impacts.
The full January climate summary, including daily records and snowfall breakdowns, is available through the National Weather Service New York office.
