Climate & Weather
How Elevation Affects Weather: A Complete Guide
Discover the fascinating relationship between elevation and weather patterns.
Elevation of New York, New York
10 meters elevation
Sea Level (0m)Mount Everest (8,848m)
-0.1°C
Temperature Drop
101.2kPa
Air Pressure
99.9%
Oxygen Level
Quick Facts
Elevation10 meters
Everest Comparison0.1% of Everest
Altitude Risk✅ Low RiskBelow altitude sickness threshold
RegionNew York
Highest PointTodt Hill, Staten Island (125 meters)
Notable Landmarks
Empire State Building
381 meterselevation
Central Park (Belvedere Castle)
41 meterselevation
Times Square
15 meterselevation
One World Trade Center
541 meterselevation
Prospect Park (Long Meadow)
37 meterselevation
Geographic Features
Built across a complex archipelago, New York City's terrain is a testament to glacial activity from the last ice age. The city spans three major islands (Manhattan, Staten Island, and Long Island), with elevations ranging from sea level to the 125-meter Todt Hill. Manhattan's distinctive ridge of metamorphic rock (Manhattan schist) provides the solid foundation for the city's iconic skyscrapers. The region also features numerous waterways, including the Hudson River estuary, East River, and New York Harbor, creating a unique maritime-influenced urban landscape.
Climate Impact
The city's low average elevation of 10 meters makes it particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts. Storm surges, like those seen during Hurricane Sandy, are amplified by the funnel-like shape of New York Bight. The urban heat island effect is moderated somewhat by maritime influences, but is intensified in areas of lower elevation. The city's waterfront locations experience distinct microclimates, with areas like Central Park acting as elevated cool islands within the urban heat landscape. Sea level rise poses a significant threat, particularly to low-lying areas in Lower Manhattan, Red Hook, and the Rockaways.
Historical Context
The city's elevation profile has been dramatically altered over centuries of development. Early Dutch settlers extensively landfilled the coastline of Lower Manhattan, pushing it about 300 meters into the Hudson River. The grid system laid out in 1811 required extensive leveling of Manhattan's natural hills, while leaving some elevated areas like Morningside Heights relatively untouched. The construction of the subway system in the early 1900s was greatly influenced by the varying elevations, with some lines built deep into Manhattan schist and others requiring elevated tracks in outer boroughs.
Cities with Similar Elevation
FAQs: New York's Elevation
What is the elevation of New York?
New York has an elevation of 10 meters, which influences its climate and environment.
How does New York's elevation affect its weather?
The elevation of New York (10 meters) significantly impacts its local climate, affecting temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric pressure.
What are the highest points near New York?
The highest point in New York is Todt Hill, Staten Island (125 meters), providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
