How Hot Does NYC Get in the Summer? A Sweaty Guide to Surviving the Big Apple's Heat
New York City is known for many things: its towering skyscrapers, its vibrant culture, and its scorching summers. If you're planning a trip to the Big Apple during the warmer months, be prepared to sweat. A lot.
Just How Hot Does It Get?
The average high temperature in NYC during July and August is around 85°F (29°C). However, temperatures can often soar well into the 90s, and even reach the triple digits on particularly hot days. And let's not forget about the humidity! NYC's summers are often sticky and muggy, which can make the heat feel even more intense.
Why is NYC So Hot?
There are a few reasons why NYC experiences such hot summers:
- Urban Heat Island Effect: Cities tend to be hotter than surrounding rural areas. This is because buildings, roads, and other paved surfaces absorb and retain heat from the sun.
- Greenhouse Effect: Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to rising global temperatures.
- Ocean Currents: Warm ocean currents can bring warmer air to the East Coast of the United States.
Surviving the NYC Summer
If you're planning to visit NYC during the summer, here are a few tips for staying cool and comfortable:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty. Dehydration can be a serious problem in hot weather.
- Wear Light, Loose-Fitting Clothing: Choose light colors to reflect sunlight. Loose-fitting clothing will help your body cool down.
- Seek Out Shade: Whenever possible, find a shady spot to rest. Parks, museums, and shopping malls are all good options.
- Take a Dip: If you're lucky enough to be staying near a pool or beach, take advantage of it!
- Use Public Transportation: Walking or biking in hot weather can be dangerous. Use public transportation whenever possible.
- Avoid Outdoor Activities During Peak Heat Hours: Try to do your sightseeing and other outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the evening, when the temperatures are cooler.
5 FAQs About Surviving NYC's Summer Heat
How to stay cool in NYC apartment without AC?
There are a few ways to stay cool in a NYC apartment without air conditioning:
- Open windows and doors at night when the temperature is cooler.
- Use fans to circulate air.
- Place ice packs or cold towels in front of fans.
- Take a cold shower.
- Cook outside or on a grill to avoid heating up your apartment.
How to dress for hot weather in NYC?
Choose light, loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Light colors will reflect sunlight and keep you cooler. Avoid dark colors like black and navy blue.
How to protect your skin from sun damage in NYC?
Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you're sweating or swimming. Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the sun.
How to stay safe during a heatwave in NYC?
*Check on elderly neighbors and relatives.
- Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat hours.
- Never leave children or pets in parked cars.
- Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- If you're feeling dizzy or lightheaded, seek medical attention.
How to find a cooling center in NYC?
During heatwaves, the city opens cooling centers where people can go to escape the heat. You can find a list of cooling centers on the NYC.gov website.
I hope this guide helps you survive the NYC summer!