New York – Headlights glow through thick fog this morning as damp air settles across the city, muting skylines and slowing traffic before many commuters even reach the bridge. Pavement feels slick, visibility fades fast, and the day begins with a quiet but real travel risk across the metro.
According to the National Weather Service in New York, visibility drops to around a half mile in several areas, with pockets falling closer to a quarter mile. The Special Weather Statement covers all five boroughs, Long Island, and much of the Lower Hudson Valley. Drivers are urged to slow down, use low beams, and leave extra space.
Fog thins later this morning, but clouds linger before partial clearing. Highs reach the upper 40s, well above early January norms. To be fair, that mild air comes with consequences. Moist ground today sets the stage for slick spots once colder air returns later.
Thursday turns brighter and calm, offering a brief reset for commuters and crews. By Friday, rain chances increase as a developing system pushes moisture north. Wet roads return, and visibility may dip again during heavier showers, especially during peak travel hours.
Into the weekend, rain becomes more widespread. Temperatures stay mild enough for liquid precipitation, but winter hazards remain in play. Melting moisture followed by colder nights could trigger flash freezing on untreated roads, ramps, and sidewalks.
Plan extra time if driving today. Keep umbrellas and winter layers handy through Friday. Meteorologists continue tracking broader winter systems nationwide, and more alerts may follow.
Five-Day Outlook for New York City
- Today: Fog early, cloudy then clearing, high near 48
- Tonight: Mostly clear, low near 36
- Thursday: Sunny and mild, high near 48
- Friday: Periods of rain, high near 52
- Saturday: Steady rain likely, high near 54
