New York City had its first freeze of the season this past weekend.  The temperature dropped to 32°F late in the evening on December 10th.

This first nip of frosty air arrived a bit late, compared to the average.  The city usually sees its first freeze sometime in early to mid-November.  The earliest 32°F day on record came on October 19th twice, first in 1940 and then again in 1974.  Our latest first freeze was on December 22, 1998.

This weekend’s foray below the freezing point was brief.  The mercury rebounded the next day and the forecast is calling for a continuation of relatively mild conditions.   Although we have been experiencing above average temperatures for most of December, colder air will inevitably arrive as winter approaches.

Average Dates for First Frost in New York State

Image Credit: Cornell.edu