Climate and monthly weather forecast
New York, USA

New York State experiences a humid continental type of climate as per Köppen climate classification with warm and humid summers and cold and wet winters.
The state has an international border with Canada's Quebec and Ontario on the north and northwest, Pennsylvania and New Jersey to the south, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont to the east and a maritime border along the Atlantic Ocean with Rhode Island.
Upstate New York comprises ranges of the Appalachian Mountains and the Adirondack Mountains in the northeastern part of the state. Downstate consists of the Greater New York Metropolitan Area, including New York City, parts of Hudson Valley, and Long Island. Western New York consists of the Great Lakes Region, while the central region hosts the Finger Lakes.

Two types of air masses significantly affect New York weather: a warm and humid one from the southwest and a cold and dry one from the northwest. The majority of the terrain consists of mountains, forests, meadows, farms, lakes, and rivers. Upstate has warm summers and long and cold winters with a massive amount of snow. Downstate has warm and humid summers and cold, wet winters that are relatively mild compared to upstate due to its lower elevation, lower latitude, and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. New York City has a humid subtropical climate with exacerbation of the urban heat island effect due to large-scale urbanization that sees higher temperatures by 5°F (-15°C) to 7°F (-13.9°C) over the surrounding areas.

The best time to visit New York is during spring and autumn, particularly from April to May and mid-September to October.
Mid-spring is relatively drier compared to the early part of the spring with a low likelihood of snowfall and storms, and warmer temperatures. Summers are hot and humid along the coast as the temperatures soar to 85°F (29.4°C) during the day. Mid fall has relatively warmer temperatures compared to the summer heat with a less chance of cyclones. Around October, the spectacular colors of the fall foliage make for a pleasant trip to New York.

Winter is the worst time to visit New York as the state experiences cold and wet weather.
Upstate New York and highlands experience intense cold with vast amounts of snowfall often up to 200" (5080mm). The coastal areas nearby the Atlantic Ocean are comparatively warmer to the northern parts of the state, particularly the mountain ranges and the Great Lakes region. However, temperatures are near freezing during the winter nights, while the days see low temperatures, less sunshine, and cloudy conditions. Although a majority of towns and cities employ regular snow removal measures, the roads are slippery due to black ice.

Spring in New York is a transitional period, moving from the remnants of winter into the warmth of the upcoming summer. During this season, temperatures range from 50°F (10°C) in the early days of March to about 70°F (21.1°C) by late May. The likelihood of snow decreases as the season progresses, with mid-spring being relatively dry. The blooming flowers and green landscapes make springtime picturesque, particularly in upstate regions with their expansive meadows and forests.

Summertime in New York is characterized by warmth and humidity. Daytime temperatures in most parts of the state typically range from 70°F (21.1°C) to 85°F (29.4°C). However, it is not uncommon for the state, especially downstate regions like New York City, to experience occasional heatwaves with temperatures soaring beyond this range. Thunderstorms originating from Canada can frequent the state, and there's also the potential for tropical cyclones from the southwest during the season.

Autumn marks a gradual drop in temperatures and the onset of the famed fall foliage. From September to November, temperatures move from the warmth of summer to the cold of the approaching winter, ranging from 75°F (23.9°C) in early September to about 45°F (7.2°C) by late November. The Great Lakes region and upstate areas, with their dense forests, present a breathtaking display of autumn colors, attracting numerous visitors during this season.

Winters in New York are defined by cold temperatures and snow. While the northern regions experience sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfall, coastal areas register temperatures a few degrees above freezing. The average temperature during winter varies, with upstate regions experiencing temperatures from 5°F (-15°C) to 30°F (-1.1°C) and downstate areas observing milder temperatures from 20°F (-6.7°C) to 40°F (4.4°C). Lake-effect snow, particularly downwind of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, can result in significant snow accumulation.

January is typically the coldest month of the year in New York State. Throughout the state, temperatures can vary significantly due to the diverse geography and resulting microclimates. In upstate regions, particularly around the Appalachian and Adirondack Mountains, temperatures often plummet to extremes, ranging from 5°F (-15°C) to 25°F (-3.9°C). Weather in January »

February remains entrenched in the winter season for New York State, though it frequently begins to display subtle shifts towards the impending spring. The state's varied topography ensures that weather conditions differ from one region to the next. Upstate New York, especially the areas surrounding the Appalachian and Adirondack Mountains, continues to grapple with winter's chill. Weather in February »

March in New York State often signifies a transitional period, where the remnants of winter start giving way to the early hints of spring. This month witnesses a broader spectrum of weather patterns due to this shift, with sporadic snow events possibly followed by warmer, spring-like days. The northern regions of the state, particularly upstate areas near the Appalachian and Adirondack Mountains, can still expect cooler temperatures. Weather in March »

April in New York State signifies a definitive shift towards spring. As winter's cold retreats, warmer days and blossoming flora become the hallmarks of this month. However, the state's diverse landscape ensures that weather conditions are not uniform across all regions. In upstate New York, especially near the Appalachian and Adirondack Mountains, temperatures start to rise consistently. Weather in April »

May marks the onset of consistent spring warmth across New York State, accompanied by vibrant flora and extended daylight. As temperatures rise, the disparity between upstate and downstate regions becomes less pronounced, though still present due to the state's varied topography. In the upstate regions, enveloping areas around the Appalachian and Adirondack Mountains, temperatures continue their upward trend. Weather in May »

June in New York State heralds the commencement of summer. It's a month characterized by longer days, heightened temperatures, and the initial signs of the season's humidity. As the state bathes in warmth, both upstate and downstate regions begin to experience temperatures that are more aligned, though subtle variations persist. Upstate New York, particularly regions surrounding the Appalachian and Adirondack Mountains, sees temperatures that typically fluctuate between 60°F (15.6°C) and 80°F (26.7°C). Weather in June »

July is emblematic of the height of summer in New York State. It often competes with August for the title of the hottest month of the year. Extended daylight, pronounced warmth, and heightened humidity define this mid-summer month, leading many to seek respite in cooler indoor locations or at the state's various water bodies. In the upstate areas, particularly around the Appalachian and Adirondack Mountains, temperatures generally range from 65°F (18.3°C) to 85°F (29.4°C). Weather in July »

August in New York State, much like July, represents the culmination of summer's intensity. It often vies with July for the designation of the year's hottest month. However, as August progresses, the initial hints of the approaching autumn become discernible, especially in the latter part of the month. Upstate regions, particularly those encompassing the Appalachian and Adirondack Mountains, usually experience temperatures from 63°F (17.2°C) to 83°F (28.3°C). Weather in August »

September in New York State marks the delightful transition from the fervor of summer to the mellow onset of autumn. As days shorten and nights grow cooler, the landscape begins its majestic transformation, painting a picturesque tapestry of amber, crimson, and gold. For the upstate regions, particularly those surrounding the Appalachian and Adirondack Mountains, temperatures typically range from 55°F (12.8°C) to 75°F (23.9°C). Weather in September »

October in New York State is quintessentially autumnal. It's a month where nature's canvas explodes in a medley of russet, gold, and deep red hues. The chill in the air becomes more pronounced, signaling the steady march toward winter, yet the month remains invigorated by the beauty of the fall foliage. In the upstate regions, specifically around the Appalachian and Adirondack Mountains, the temperature spectrum generally spans from 45°F (7.2°C) to 65°F (18.3°C). Weather in October »

November in New York State is characterized by the undeniable descent into the colder seasons. It's a month that straddles the tail end of autumn and the beginnings of winter, with both the landscape and temperatures reflecting this transition. Upstate regions, especially the Appalachian and Adirondack Mountains, encounter temperatures from 35°F (1.7°C) to 50°F (10°C). Weather in November »

December in New York State heralds the full onset of winter, a time of frosted landscapes, twinkling holiday lights, and the unmistakable crispness of the air. This month encapsulates the essence of winter's beauty and its chill. Upstate areas, including the regions surrounding the Appalachian and Adirondack Mountains, experience temperatures that typically fall between 20°F (-6.7°C) and 35°F (1.7°C). Weather in December »