A Man shovels the sidewalk on Tuesday December 24, 2024 in New York City. Photo by Michael Nagle Snow Removal
UPDATE: New Yorkers hoping for a white Christmas are facing disappointment as weather forecasts indicate a dry holiday. AccuWeather.com senior meteorologist John Feerick confirmed that while there could be light snow early this week, the chances of a snowy Christmas are bleak.
Weather patterns show a slight possibility of snowfall late Monday night into Tuesday morning, but any accumulation is expected to melt before Christmas Day. Feerick stated, “Even if we were to get a small accumulation, it would melt by the time we got to Christmas.” This forecast means residents can expect temperatures to hover around the mid-40s this holiday season.
Historically, snowfall on Christmas in New York City is a rare event. The last time the city experienced a snowy Christmas was in 2009, when Central Park had an inch of snow on the ground. In fact, over the last 156 years, New York City has had a white Christmas only six times, with the most notable being in 1909, when 7 inches blanketed Central Park.
Feerick emphasized the uniqueness of snow on Christmas, stating, “The last time there was actually accumulating snow on Christmas Day in New York City was 2002 when 5 inches fell in Central Park.”
For many, the dream of a white Christmas carries emotional significance, evoking memories of holiday traditions and festive cheer. The prospect of a snowy landscape adds a magical touch to the season, making the dry forecast particularly disappointing for those longing for that quintessential holiday experience.
As the city prepares for what appears to be another dry Christmas, residents and visitors alike are shifting their focus to alternative holiday celebrations. With temperatures expected to remain mild, outdoor activities may still be enjoyable, albeit without the seasonal snow that many cherish.
Stay tuned as we monitor the latest weather updates and what they mean for holiday plans across New York and New Jersey.