Dreaming of a White (ish) Christmas in NYC? Let's Talk Snow!
Okay, folks, let's get down to the nitty-gritty, the frosty facts, the snowy scoop on how much of the white stuff New York City usually gets in December. Because, let's face it, nothing says "holiday cheer" like a city blanketed in a pristine layer of snow... or at least a light dusting that doesn't immediately turn into slush.
How Much Snow Does New York City Get In December |
December Snow in NYC: The Stats (aka the Not-So-Dramatic Numbers)
Now, before you start picturing yourself ice-skating through Central Park with carolers serenading you, let's temper expectations a tad. December in NYC is more likely to be chilly and damp than a winter wonderland.
- <u>The average snowfall for December in NYC is around 4.9 inches.</u> Yes, you read that right. Not feet, not yards, inches. That's enough to build a very small snowman, provided you have the patience of a saint and a serious case of cabin fever.
But Here's the Thing About Averages...
Averages are like that one friend who always says they'll be on time, but consistently shows up fashionably late. They're a guideline, not a gospel. Some years, December might surprise us with a decent snowfall, turning the city into a picturesque postcard. Other years, we might get a few flurries that melt before they even hit the ground, leaving us wondering if we imagined the whole thing.
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Recent Years: A Story of Mild Decembers
If we look at recent years, December has been playing it pretty cool (or, should we say, not so cool). We've had more "meh" Decembers than "wow" Decembers, with minimal snowfall and temperatures that feel more like November than the heart of winter.
This could be due to various factors, including climate change, El Ni�o, or maybe Mother Nature just decided to take a vacation in the Bahamas for the holidays. Whatever the reason, it means that a white Christmas in NYC is more of a Hollywood fantasy than a likely reality.
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So, What Can You Expect in December?
- Chilly temperatures: Expect temperatures ranging from the low 30s to the low 40s Fahrenheit (around 0 to 5 degrees Celsius).
- Rain or snow: You're more likely to encounter rain than heavy snow in December. But hey, a little precipitation is good for the soul (and the city's reservoirs).
- Holiday cheer: Even without a ton of snow, NYC in December is magical. The city is decked out in festive lights, there are holiday markets galore, and the atmosphere is buzzing with excitement.
Embrace the Unexpected
The beauty of NYC in December is that you never know what you're going to get. Maybe you'll luck out with a surprise snowfall that turns the city into a winter wonderland. Or maybe you'll have a mild, sunny day perfect for exploring Central Park. Either way, embrace the unexpected and enjoy the unique charm of the city during the holiday season.
How To FAQs: Your Burning Snow Questions Answered
Alright, let's tackle some of those burning questions you might have about snow in NYC in December.
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How to build a snowman in NYC in December?
- Answer: Find a patch of snow that's at least a few inches deep (good luck with that!), pack it tightly, and hope for the best. Maybe bring some extra snow from a nearby park, just in case.
How to prepare for a snowstorm in NYC?
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- Answer: Keep an eye on the weather forecast, stock up on essentials like food and water, and make sure you have a warm coat and some sturdy boots. And if a major storm is predicted, maybe consider staying home and watching movies instead.
How to get around NYC during a snowstorm?
- Answer: Public transportation is usually your best bet, but be prepared for delays and potential closures. If you have to drive, be extra careful and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
How to find the best hot chocolate in NYC?
- Answer: Now this is a crucial question! There are countless places to get amazing hot chocolate in NYC. Some favorites include City Bakery, Jacques Torres Chocolate, and Serendipity 3. But honestly, you can't go wrong with a cozy caf� and a steaming mug of cocoa.
How to enjoy the holidays in NYC without snow?
- Answer: Easy! NYC is brimming with holiday spirit, regardless of the weather. Go ice skating at Rockefeller Center, see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, explore the holiday markets, and soak up the festive atmosphere. You might even forget you were dreaming of a white Christmas in the first place.
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