Dry, frigid weather to chill NYC for the 2018 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic

Those heading outside to enjoy New Year's Day or attend the 2018 NHL Winter Classic will face a bright and brisk day in the Big Apple.

"On New Year's Day we will once again take the game outside for the 2018 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic," National Hockey League Players' Asssociation Executive Director Don Fehr said.

"The Rangers and Sabres will showcase their incredible skill before tens of thousands of fans at Citi Field, and continue the great tradition of the Winter Classic," he said.

Keeping the ice frozen will not be an issue as players and spectators will be subject to temperatures more than 20 degrees Fahrenheit below the early January average at the outdoor stadium.

Temperatures will only rise slightly from when the puck is first dropped at 1:00 p.m. ET, peaking near 20 F during the midafternoon.

Combined with gusty winds, AccuWeather RealFeel&reg Temperatures will frequently dip to subzero levels.

In these conditions, “the extremities, such as fingers, toes and ears, are at greatest risk [of frostbite],” AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski warned.

Consuming alcoholic beverages increases the risk of hypothermia, if not alert and properly dressed, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Multiple layers of clothing as well as mittens, scarves, hats and warm shoes will be a necessity. Sunglasses will be needed as well as sunshine basks the city.

"With the near-total sunshine expected, sun glare may be a concern," AccuWeather Meteorologist Brian Thompson said. "Several previous editions of the Winter Classic had delayed starts due to sun glare, and it is certainly possible that we may see that again this year."

Despite the chill, those heading out into the city can take advantage of the widespread dry weather, which will ensure generally smooth travel on regional highways.

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