New York City Weather in August
Planning a trip to New York City in August? Here's what the weather is really like as summer peaks and hurricane season starts to ramp up.
August in NYC is still hot, still humid, and now carries a real hurricane risk. Highs start the month in the upper 80s°F and cool into the upper 70s by month's end. Lows sit in the 60s and 70s, and the urban heat island effect keeps the city warmer than surrounding areas — especially at night. Rain averages 9–11 days, often as strong thunderstorms with lightning, damaging wind, and hail.
But the bigger weather story is the tropics. Atlantic hurricane season hits its most active stretch from August through October, and storms tracking up the East Coast can bring high winds, torrential rain, and coastal flooding to NYC and especially Long Island. It's still a great month to visit — the city's alive with summer energy — but keep an eye on the tropics if you're traveling in late August. Meteorologist Ian Schwartz breaks down what to expect.
At a glance
What's covered
- Highs, lows, and how the month cools as it goes
- Why the urban heat island keeps NYC warmer at night
- Rainy days and severe thunderstorm risk
- Hurricane season enters its most active stretch
- What tropical systems mean for NYC and Long Island
Jump to a moment
New York City in August FAQ
What is the weather like in New York City in August?
Hot and humid, but the urban heat island keeps the city warmer than surrounding areas — especially at night. Highs start the month in the upper 80s°F and cool into the upper 70s by month's end. Rain averages 9–11 days, often as strong thunderstorms with lightning, damaging wind, and hail.
Is August the peak of hurricane season?
August through October is the most active stretch of Atlantic hurricane season. Direct hits on NYC are historically rare, but decaying tropical systems tracking up the East Coast can bring high winds, torrential rain, and coastal flooding — especially to Long Island. Worth watching the tropics if you're traveling in late August.
What is the urban heat island effect in New York?
Cities absorb and re-radiate solar heat from concrete, asphalt, and buildings, keeping urban areas significantly warmer than surrounding countryside — especially at night. NYC's urban heat island can add 5–15°F to overnight lows in summer, meaning the city cools off less than nearby suburbs and beaches. It matters for comfort and safety on hot nights.