This means that summers are hot and humid while winters are cold and snowy. The city is situated near the Elizabeth River, which has been contaminated with pollutants such as sewage and heavy metals in the past. Despite this, the city has made improvements in recent years to improve water quality. Outdoor recreation opportunities in Elizabeth include parks and playgrounds, with Warinanco Park being the largest and most popular. The park features a lake, nature trails, picnic areas, and sports facilities. Additionally, the city is in close proximity to the Jersey Shore and the Appalachian Mountains, providing even more opportunities for outdoor activities.
Elizabeth receives approximately 1204mm of rain per year, with humidity levels near 72% and air temperatures averaging around 13°C. Elizabeth has a plant hardyness factor of 7, meaning plants and agriculture in this region tend to thrive during the non-winter months.