Monday
9th April 2001, 1000 BST
Big
weather in the Big Apple |
|
Manhattan skyline
in the sunshine |
|
The Big Apple is not a destination where the weather is generally
a prime consideration. For most of us the sights and shopping are
the main attractions.
But in common with most cities on the eastern side of a large landmass
in the northern hemisphere, New York is subject to climatic extremes.
These extremes can disrupt or inconvenience the best-laid plans for
getting about the city, whether it is a winter blizzard or a summer
heatwave.
Make no mistake, New York gets both, and as with most things in New
York, there are no half measures with the weather.
Winter can come early to New York. Temperatures in November can fall
as low as -14 Celsius from December through until mid-March, although
daytime temperatures can reach around 4 Celsius (39F).
 |
| Empire
State Building |
Nighttime temperatures
are usually below freezing, but in extreme cases temperatures may
drop to below Minus 20 Celsius (-3F).
Summer temperatures are not usually too unpleasant. Average daily
maximum in the summer months are around 25 to 28 Celsius (77 to 82F).
But hot air from the interior of the continent can bring very hot
and humid weather.
Extremes of 39 Celsius (102F) have been recorded at the main airports
and in the parks, and the streets are likely to be warmer!
So with rainfall fairly consistent throughout the year (between 9
and 12 wet days each month), the best time to visit is in the spring
or autumn.
But even in these seasons the visitor will need to be prepared for
fairly extreme conditions. Although it may be pleasantly warm by day,
it can still be very cold at night.
But for many New York is such an exciting city that any time is a
great time to visit one of the most brash and vibrant cities on Earth. |
|
Motorway
gridlock special
