Climate and monthly weather forecast
Syracuse, NY

Share
A water fountain in the Clinton Square in Syracuse, New York, with a view of towering historical buildings
A water fountain in the Clinton Square in Syracuse, New York, with a view of towering historical buildings

The climate of Syracuse

Resting within the humid continental zone as defined by the Köppen climate classification, Syracuse, New York sees a full range of weather throughout the year, without a dry season and a warm summer. The city's position in Central New York exposes it to consistent temperatures, which fluctuate between 17.1°F (-8.3°C) and 78.3°F (25.7°C) throughout the twelve months.

Relative humidity remains consistent on a monthly basis, sitting between 78% and 87%, with higher rates during colder months. Rainfall is seen across the year, with a minimal amount difference from month to month, from 1.02" (26mm) to 1.77" (45mm). A significant point to note is the number of snowy days, which occur mainly from November to April, peaking at 18.3 days per month in January.

Wind speeds hover between 6.2mph (10km/h) and 10.4mph (16.7km/h) throughout the year, with the strongest gusts reaching up to 16.7mph (26.9km/h) typical in January. The climate is also characterized by considerable cloud cover with a minimum of 32% in July and August to a high of 74% in January and February. Sunlight varies dramatically, from just over 9 hours in December and January to a high of 15.3 hours during June.

The best time to visit Syracuse

For visitors seeking comfortable temperatures and extended daylight hours, late spring and early summer - specifically May to early July - are ideal. Temperatures during this period reach up to 65.8°F (18.8°C) and 78.3°F (25.7°C) respectively, with daylight hours exceeding 14 per day. Humidity is relatively lower compared to other months, and rainfall is moderate. It's also a time of year when the city is flush with vibrant colors making it visually appealing for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

The worst time to visit Syracuse

The months of January and February, though picturesque with their snowy landscapes, may prove challenging for visitors unused to colder weather. Average temperatures dip to lows of 17.1°F (-8.3°C) and 18.9°F (-7.3°C) respectively and snowfall is significant, up to 3.39" (86mm) and 3.62" (92mm) respectively. Daylight hours are also at their shortest, with just over 9 hours per day, and the cloud cover is heaviest during these months, limiting the amount of sunshine to an average of 2.6 to 2.4 hours daily.

Spring weather in Syracuse

The onset of spring in Syracuse is marked by rising temperatures, which range from 34.5°F (1.4°C) in March to 65.8°F (18.8°C) by May. Snowfall tend to dwindle and gives way to increased rainfall, ranging from 1.22" (31mm) in March to 1.77" (45mm) in May. The lengthening daylight hours bring more sunshine, from 4.7 hours daily in March to 8.7 hours in May indicating blossoming nature landscapes and mild, enjoyable temperatures.

Summer weather in Syracuse

Summer temperatures in Syracuse typically fluctuate from 76.5°F (24.7°C) to 78.3°F (25.7°C) with the warmest month being July. Relative humidity is kept at reach during summer, ranging from 79% in May to 81% in June. Rainfall is at the lower end compared to other seasons, around 1.5" (38mm) from June to August. The average sunshine is above 9 hours on daily basis, promising enjoyable outdoor activities during the season.

Autumn weather in Syracuse

Autumn ushers in a gradual drop in temperatures, from a high of 70.3°F (21.3°C) in September to 44.8°F (7.1°C) in November. Rainfall during this period increases slightly with the highest for the year in October at 1.61" (41mm). Days become noticeably shorter, with daylight hours diminishing from 12.5 hours in September to just 9.7 hours in November.

Winter weather in Syracuse

Winter descends upon Syracuse with temperatures plunging to lows of between 28.4°F (-2°C) and 17.1°F (-8.3°C) from December to February. It's a season distinguished by its significant snowfall, ranging from 3.39" (86mm) in December to 3.62" (92mm) in January. The chilly temperatures are further accentuated by increased wind speeds, from 9.4mph (15.1km/h) in November to 10.4mph (16.7km/h) in December. Nevertheless, the winter period provides an ideal setting for snow-based activities and winter sports.

Weather in January

In Syracuse, New York, January holds the title of coldest month, noticing a chilling drop in low temperatures to 17.1°F (-8.3°C). This frosty period in the year is known for its frequent snowfall, with a shroud of white often blanketing the city. Weather in January »

Weather in February

February sees a slight thaw in Syracuse, albeit while remaining firmly in winter's grasp. Light enhancement is noted in both temperatures and daylight hours compared to January. A small break is observed in snow showers, but the city continues its winter trend, with snowfall still a frequent event. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March in Syracuse introduces the first signs of spring, allowing temperatures to climb close to 40°F (4.4°C). Despite the snowfall reducing significantly from February, the city experiences an increase in rainy days, which dominate the climate scene. Weather in March »

Weather in April

In April, Syracuse fully embraces springtime changes as tit displays an upward temperature trajectory, crossing over into the comfortable 50°F (10°C) range. A definitive shift from the winter character is evident as April stands virtually devoid of a snowfall day. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May sees the weather in Syracuse transition firmly towards summertime, with temperatures reaching an inviting peak of 65.8°F (18.8°C). This month is characterized by abundant daylight, creating an increased sense of warmth and optimism. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June welcomes the summer season in Syracuse with temperatures appreciably soaring towards 72°F (22.2°C). This month sees peak daylight hours, celebrating the year's longest day during the summer solstice. The sun quickly becomes a constant companion, creating an atmosphere that tempts every outdoorsy instinct. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in Syracuse turns up the heat further, scoring the highest average temperature at 78.3°F (25.7°C). With consistent sunshine punctuated by occasional rainfall, the month bathes the city in the very essence of summer. Long days and warm breezes bring life to the city in a very unique way. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August in Syracuse carries forward the heat trend from July, nearly matching the high at 76.5°F (24.7°C). This month retains most of July’s characteristics, offering the city a second round of peak summer enjoyment. Alterations on the weather front are mild with the continuation of generous daylight and ample sunshine. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September brings a decline in temperature in Syracuse, nudging the weather towards autumn, as temperatures approach 70°F (21.1°C). This month initiates a retreat from summer's peak, paving the way for the fall season. Decrease in daylight hours signifies the progressing yearly cycle but plenty of warmth and sun remain to enjoy. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October drops a curtain on summer weather in Syracuse, bringing temperatures down to the 50°F (10°C) region. This mid-autumn month hosts the outdoor spectacle of falling leaves, presenting a vibrant color palette and cooler temps. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November gives Syracuse a taste of winter, with temperatures falling to a colder average low of 33.1°F (0.6°C). As the season shifts, the city gears up to witness the first snowfall of the year. Shorter days herald the approaching winter solstice while decreased sunshine hours add to the wintry feel. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in Syracuse marks the official start of winter, as the temperature plummets to 34.5°F (1.4°C), ushering in the chill of the season. Snowfall becomes a regular visitor, contributing to the year-end festivities. The month, with its limited daylight, hosts the shortest day of the year. Weather in December »
Updated: Jun 21, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What time of the year is the coldest?

January is the month when Syracuse, New York, experiences its coldest temperatures, averaging a high of 28.4°F (-2°C) and a low of 17.1°F (-8.3°C).

How many days does it rain?

Throughout the year, there are 141.4 rainfall days, and 16.57" (421mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

When does it snow?

Months with snowfall in Syracuse are January through April, October through December.

How many days does it snow in Syracuse?

Throughout the year, in Syracuse, New York, there are 71.7 snowfall days, and 16.5" (419mm) of snow is accumulated.

What is the month with the lowest UV index?

January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1, are months with the lowest UV index.

What is the most humid month in Syracuse?

The most humid month is February, with an average relative humidity of 87%.

What is the snowiest month?

The months with the most snowfall are February and December, with an average 3.62" (92mm) of accumulated snow.

What is the month with the least sunshine?

The month with the least sunshine is February, with an average of 2.4h of sunshine.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.

What is the least humid month?

The least humid month is April, with an average relative humidity of 78%.

What is the rainiest month?

May is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 15 days and accumulates 1.77" (45mm) of precipitation.

When it does not snow?

In Syracuse, snow does not fall in May through September.

What are the months with the highest UV index?

May through August, with an average maximum UV index of 5, are months with the highest UV index.

When are the longest days?

The month with the longest days is June, with an average of 15h and 18min of daylight.

What time of the year is the hottest?

July registers as the month with the average highest temperatures, reaching 78.3°F (25.7°C) at its peak and 59.9°F (15.5°C) at the lowest.

What month has the most sunshine?

With an average of 10.3h of sunshine, July has the most sunshine of the year.

What is the driest month?

The month with the least rainfall is September, when the rain falls for 11.2 days and typically collects 1.02" (26mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days?

December has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 9h and 6min of daylight.

Average temperature
Syracuse, NY

Average temperature - Syracuse, NY

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (78.3°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (28.4°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (59.9°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (17.1°F).

Average pressure
Syracuse, NY

Average pressure - Syracuse, NY

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.09"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.92"Hg).

Average wind speed
Syracuse, NY

Average wind speed - Syracuse, NY

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (10.4mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are July and August (6.2mph).

Average humidity
Syracuse, NY

Average humidity - Syracuse, NY

The month with the highest relative humidity is February (87%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is April (78%).

Average rainfall
Syracuse, NY

Average rainfall - Syracuse, NY

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (1.77").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (1.02").

Average rainfall days
Syracuse, NY

Average rainfall days - Syracuse, NY

The months with the highest number of rainy days are May and July (15 days).
The month with the least rainy days is January (6.7 days).

Average snowfall
Syracuse, NY

Average snowfall - Syracuse, NY

The months with the highest snowfall are February and December (3.62").
The months with the least snowfall are May, June, July, August and September (0").

Average snowfall days
Syracuse, NY

Average snowfall days - Syracuse, NY

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (18.3 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Syracuse, NY

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Syracuse, NY

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 18min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 6min).

The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 18min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 2h and 24min).

Average sunshine days
Syracuse, NY

Average sunshine days - Syracuse, NY

The month with the most sunshine days is September (17.2 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is February (7.2 days).

Average UV index
Syracuse, NY

Average UV index - Syracuse, NY

The months with the highest UV index are May, June, July and August (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 1).

Average cloud cover
Syracuse, NY

Average cloud cover - Syracuse, NY

The months with the most cloud cover are January and February (Cloud cover 74).
The months with the least cloud cover are July and August (Cloud cover 32).

Average visibility
Syracuse, NY

Average visibility - Syracuse, NY

The months with the highest visibility are April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March and December (5mi).

Syracuse, New York, USA

Weather forecast for your location

1. Click Locate me button
2. Allow the app to use your location