New Yorkers flock to a public water fountain on a hot day. Taken between 1908 and 1915
I originally ran this story back in July 2007, but it seems pretty apt today, given the circumstances:
Its gonna get hot this summer in New York City. Pretty obviously July is the worst month for those in business suits, but as bad as it will eventually get, consider this:
The hottest day in New York City history was on July 9, 1936, where it reached a staggering 106 degrees. Pair that with the accepted fashion of the time — i.e. shorts and tanktops were barely in vogue on Coney Island, much less casual dress wear through the streets — and you’ve officially got one of the most unpleasant days in the city’s history of recorded temperatures.
At 104 scorching degrees, runner up goes to July 21, 1977 — which actually occurred eight days AFTER the legendary blackout — and August 17, 1918, seeing the end of World War I and the beginning of a devastating influenza epidemic.
And the coolest NY July day? July 1, 1943 experienced a record low of 52 degrees. Bring me there now!
Picture courtesy LOC
5 replies on “The hottest day in New York City history”
Yes, I too would enjoy 52 degree weather!
i like summer but it can get hot 106 degrees no good!
And now, July 22, 2011 comes in at 104. Amazing…
when is new york hottest day in 2012 and how much-Vivy
You can go to New York City in 1943 right now – just visit http://www.1940snewyork.com/ I can’t promise the photos were taken on the cool July day in that year, but they’re pretty “cool” all the same. Hope you like the site!