Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2024 Weather Forecast

NEW YORK CITY – Macy’s is preparing for millions of in-person spectators for its annual Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City – despite the threat of storms, bitter cold and whipping winds.

The wind also poses a threat to the dozens of building-sized balloons that parade along the Manhattan route.

Here’s what to expect from the weather forecast if you plan to attend the parade in person:

Thanksgiving Day Weather Forecast in NYC

The FOX Forecast Center said a Thanksgiving Day storm will be on the Big Apple’s doorstep as officials coordinate Thursday morning’s parade and as the last of the festive and fun balloons are inflated ahead of the parade’s start.

Rain is expected across the region Thursday as the winter storm picks up, with winds not starting to pick up until later Thursday afternoon.

The FOX Forecast Center said rain amounts on Thursday will likely be anywhere from half an inch to an inch, but should subside within 6-12 hours.

Wind threats

However, problems could arise if the storm moves through New York City earlier than expected. The FOX Forecast Center said winds are not expected to pick up until the system moves offshore, heralding colder temperatures and stronger winds.

The balloons in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade are massive, and wind plays a critical role in parade logistics and safety measures.

The FOX Forecast Center expect light winds around 5-10 mph with some higher gusts.

And that’s good news for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the balloons floating over the streets of New York.

Winds of that strength may not seem like much, but controlling the balloons can become much more difficult as the wind increases.

The iconic balloons cannot fly if sustained winds reach 23 mph and/or if gusts reach 34 mph.

For now, it looks like the wind will stay below these thresholds.

Thanksgiving week forecast

Tuesday

Expect some rain before the sun comes out. High of 60, low of 48.

Wednesday

Temperatures drop with mostly clear skies. High of 50, low of 40.

Thursday

Expect rain, with possible snow north of the city. High of 49, low of 41.

Friday

A windy but clear day with near freezing temperatures. High of 46, low of 38.