LaGuardia records highest midnight temperature on record as New York City heat wave persists

The record overnight warmth followed one of the hottest days experienced across the region in more than a decade. LaGuardia exceeded 37.8°C (100°F), while Central Park, New York City’s official long-term climate station, reached 37.8°C (100°F), tying the daily record for July 2 set in 1966 and recording its first triple-digit temperature since 2012. Newark Liberty International Airport also exceeded 37.8°C (100°F).

Hourly observations showed remarkably little cooling after sunset. Temperatures remained between 31–33°C (88–91°F) through much of the night while dew points stayed above 21°C (70°F), keeping heat index values elevated despite the absence of daytime sunshine. The persistent warmth provided little overnight relief and maintained hazardous conditions well into the night.

National Weather Service climatological records show that LaGuardia has maintained observations since 1939. In addition to the midnight temperature record, the station established a new record high minimum temperature of 28.9°C (84°F), surpassing the previous record of 25.6°C (78°F) set in 2002. Together, the midnight temperature record and record high minimum highlight the intensity of the early July heat wave at one of New York City’s primary observing stations.

Although Central Park experienced similar daytime heat, its overnight temperatures remained lower than those observed at LaGuardia. The difference reflects variations among observing sites within the New York metropolitan area, including local geography, airport surroundings and the urban heat island effect, which can substantially reduce nighttime cooling in densely developed areas.

The heat wave developed beneath a strong upper-level ridge that allowed very hot and humid air to remain entrenched across the Northeast for several days. Early July is climatologically among the warmest periods of the year in New York City, but temperatures remaining near 34°C (94°F) around midnight are exceptionally rare in the station’s historical record. The National Weather Service and NOAA will incorporate the observations into the official climatological archive following routine quality-control procedures.

References:

¹ Record Event Report: Record High Minimum Temperature Set at LaGuardia Airport on July 2, 2026 – National Weather Service New York, NY – July 3, 2026

² LaGuardia Airport (KLGA) Hourly Weather Observations – National Weather Service – Accessed July 4, 2026

Reet Kaur

I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.

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