New Year's Eve Weather On Long Island: What To Expect

LONG ISLAND, NY — For those hoping to head out on New Year's Eve Tuesday night, don't forget to bring an umbrella.

According to James Tomasini, meteorologist with the National Weather Service office in Upton, New Year's Eve promises to bring soggy skies.

Tuesday is expected to be dry in the morning and early afternoon, he said. "Then, by late afternoon, the chance of rain starts increasing."

Rain is likely during the overnight period, heavy at times, with the chance of isolated thunder, Tomasini said.

The four-period "on either side of midnight," from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. is when the heaviest rain is expected to fall, he added — just in time for the ball to drop in Times Square. A total of up to three quarters of an inch of rain is expected on New Year's Eve and into the early morning hours on New Year's Day across Long Island, he said.

"Then, as we get into Wednesday morning, we will dry out, with the chances of rain dropping to 15 percent Wednesday, and a slight chance of showers on New Year's Day," Tomasini said.

Above-normal temperatures are expected, with highs in the low 50s and lows in the mid 40s.

"The good thing is we won't get too cold at night and we won't have to worry about freezing temps. But people still have to use caution when driving, especially during the times with heavy downpours," Tomasini said.