Last updated: Wednesday, June 26, 2025 – Local time in New York
One final day of intense heat before cooler air arrives
Tuesday was a scorcher across the entire tri-state area, with record-breaking temperatures toppling century-old climate marks. The high at Central Park reached 99°F (37.2°C)—just shy of the predicted 100°F (37.8°C)—yet still hot enough to break the previous June 24 record of 96°F (35.5°C), set back in 1888.
It was also the hottest temperature recorded in Central Park since July 18, 2012, when it actually hit 100°F (37.8°C). Notably, it’s been about four years since the city last saw 98°F (36.6°C).
More than 150 million people across the Eastern U.S. woke up under heat warnings, and the National Weather Service expected dozens of locations to either tie or exceed their daily high temperature records.
Wednesday: the final peak before major cool-down
Wednesday, June 26 marks the last day of the current heatwave, with highs hovering near 95°F (35°C) across much of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. But a cold front arriving overnight will deliver a dramatic drop in temperatures.
By Thursday and into Friday, the thermometer is expected to slide below seasonal averages. In New York City, Friday’s high could reach only 69°F (20.5°C)—a sharp and welcome contrast to the stifling heat earlier this week.
Afternoon storms return as cooler air moves in
As the heat dome weakens, instability will return to the atmosphere, bringing back afternoon showers and thunderstorms, especially as we move toward the weekend. Forecast models suggest a shift to a cooler, more unsettled pattern, replacing the recent run of dry, oppressive heat.
Next week brings milder heat rebound
Looking ahead to next week, temperatures will begin to climb again, but in a far more manageable range. Highs are expected to settle in the mid-80s°F (around 29°C)—a noticeable and comfortable change from this week’s extremes.
Fourth of July shaping up to be clear and pleasant
The extended forecast currently shows clear skies and mild temperatures for July 4, just ten days away—ideal conditions to enjoy the Macy’s Fireworks Spectacular along the East River.
Extreme Heat Warning still active for parts of New Jersey
Although relief is approaching, an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect for parts of New Jersey through 8 p.m. today, Wednesday. Until then, dangerous conditions will persist, with intense humidity and high heat indices continuing to affect the region.
