The Rose Parade, a beloved tradition in Pasadena, California, faced an unexpected turn of events as rain poured down for the first time in two decades, marking the New Year in an unusual way for many attendees. Flood watches were issued across the region, and participants were met with wet conditions that dampened the usual festive spirit.
As the parade commenced at 8 a.m., temperatures hovered at a chilly 58 degrees Fahrenheit, with rainfall amounting to one to two inches throughout the event. Despite the wet weather, many marching bands, floats, and grand marshals, including basketball legend Earvin Magic Johnson, remained optimistic, with only minor adjustments made to cope with the conditions.
In stark contrast, parts of the Northeast faced their own host of winter challenges, with a winter storm impacting New Year's Eve celebrations in New York City. The festivities at Times Square were marked by freezing temperatures that many reported as the coldest in a decade. Snow squalls swept through areas from Wisconsin to Illinois and up into New England, further complicating travel plans for many celebrating the arrival of 2026.
Air travel took a hit as well, with flight delays reported at major airports, including San Diego International and Boston Logan, as severe weather made it difficult for travelers to reach their destinations. As the nation welcomed the New Year, the varied weather highlights the unpredictability of winter while serving as a reminder of climate change's impact on traditional events.
In Southern California, residents in areas recovering from last year's devastating wildfires faced additional challenges with evacuation alerts in place due to the searing combination of rain and potential flooding. As celebrations continued amid the unusual conditions, many communities persevered, demonstrating resilience in the face of nature's unpredictable ways.
