Binghamton Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Summer in Binghamton

Summers in Binghamton are warm and humid, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s Fahrenheit. The average daily temperature in July, the hottest month, is 82°F (28°C). The humidity can make it feel even hotter, especially during the afternoon. There is a good amount of rainfall in the summer, with an average of 4.5 inches per month. However, there are also plenty of sunny days, and the average monthly sunshine hours range from 7 to 8 hours.

Winter in Binghamton

Winters in Binghamton are cold and snowy, with average high temperatures in the mid-30s Fahrenheit. The average daily temperature in January, the coldest month, is 28°F (-2°C). It is not uncommon for temperatures to drop below 0°F at night. The city receives an average of 60 inches of snow per year, and it can be difficult to get around during snowstorms. The average monthly sunshine hours range from 4 to 5 hours in the winter.

Summer Temperatures in Binghamton

During the summer months, Binghamton enjoys warm and humid weather, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the low 80s Fahrenheit (18-28 degrees Celsius). July is typically the warmest month, with average highs of 82 degrees Fahrenheit (28 degrees Celsius). The humidity levels during the summer can be quite high, especially during the evening hours, making it feel even warmer than the actual temperature. However, the region does experience occasional thunderstorms and showers, which can provide some relief from the heat and humidity.

Winter Temperatures in Binghamton

In contrast to the warm summers, winters in Binghamton are cold and snowy, with average temperatures dipping below freezing for much of the season. January is typically the coldest month, with average lows of 11 degrees Fahrenheit (-12 degrees Celsius). The region receives an average of about 100 inches (254 centimeters) of snowfall each year, which can make driving and other outdoor activities challenging. The cold temperatures and snow can persist into March, with occasional snowstorms and icy conditions even into April.

Cloud Cover

Binghamton, located in southern New York State, experiences varying cloud cover throughout the year. During the summer months, clouds are typically more prevalent, with an average cloud cover of around 65-70%. This is primarily due to increased moisture and convective activity, resulting in the formation of towering cumulus clouds and occasional thunderstorms. In the fall and winter, cloud cover decreases to approximately 45-55%, as cold air and a lack of moisture limit cloud development. However, during periods of precipitation, cloud cover can increase significantly, particularly with low-level clouds such as stratus and nimbostratus.

Types of Clouds

The types of clouds observed in Binghamton vary depending on the season and weather conditions. During the summer, cumulus clouds are the most common, appearing as puffy white or gray masses with flat bases. These clouds often grow vertically into towering cumulonimbus clouds, which can produce rain, thunder, and lightning. In the fall and winter, low-level clouds such as stratus and stratocumulus become more prevalent. Stratus clouds appear as uniform gray layers that cover the entire sky, while stratocumulus clouds resemble a field of white or gray patches. Cirrus clouds, composed of ice crystals, are common at high altitudes and appear as wispy streaks or feathers.

Annual Precipitation Patterns

Binghamton, located in upstate New York, experiences a humid continental climate with distinct seasonal variations in precipitation. The city has an average annual precipitation of approximately 36 inches (914 mm). Precipitation is distributed throughout the year, but there are noticeable patterns across different seasons.

During the winter months (December-February), precipitation often falls in the form of snow. Binghamton receives an average of 60 inches (1524 mm) of snow annually. January and February are typically the snowiest months, with an average of 13 inches (330 mm) of snowfall each. Winter precipitation is largely influenced by cold air masses from the north, which bring moisture and snowfall to the region.

Summer Precipitation Characteristics

Summer months (June-August) in Binghamton are characterized by frequent thunderstorms and occasional heavy downpours. These storms often bring large amounts of rainfall in a short period of time. July is the wettest month, receiving an average of 3.8 inches (97 mm) of precipitation. Thunderstorms are often accompanied by lightning, thunder, and occasional hail. August also sees significant rainfall, with an average of 3.6 inches (91 mm). Summer precipitation is associated with warm, humid air masses from the south, which carry moisture and create unstable atmospheric conditions conducive to thunderstorm formation.

Annual Rainfall and Distribution:

Binghamton, New York, in the United States, experiences a moderate level of annual rainfall, with an average of approximately 36 inches (91.4 centimeters). The rainfall is generally distributed evenly throughout the year, with slightly higher amounts in the summer months. The wettest months tend to be June and July, while February and March are typically the driest. The consistent rainfall contributes to the region’s lush vegetation and supports agricultural activities.

Seasonal Variability:

The rainfall patterns in Binghamton exhibit seasonal variability. During the spring, the increased frequency of storms and the melting of snowpack result in higher levels of precipitation. Summer brings warm and humid conditions, leading to occasional thunderstorms and intense rainfall events. In the fall, the weather becomes milder, with occasional showers and reduced rainfall. Winter months tend to be relatively dry, with precipitation falling mostly as snow. These seasonal variations impact the region’s water resources, as well as the activities and industries that depend on them.

Climate and Snow Season

Binghamton, a city in the Southern Tier of New York, experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. The city receives an average of 63 inches (160 cm) of snowfall annually, with snow typically falling from November to April. January is the snowiest month, with an average of 20 inches (51 cm) of snowfall.

Snow Removal and Preparedness

The city of Binghamton is well-prepared to handle snowfall. The city has a dedicated snow removal department responsible for clearing roads, sidewalks, and other public areas. Residents are encouraged to be prepared for snowfall by having snow removal equipment, such as shovels and snow blowers. Additionally, the city provides snow removal services for elderly and disabled residents.

Sunrise and Sunset Times in Binghamton

Binghamton, located in the southern tier of New York State, experiences varying sunrise and sunset times throughout the year due to its location in the Northern Hemisphere. During the summer months (June to August), the sun rises around 5:30 AM and sets close to 8:30 PM, providing approximately 15 hours of daylight. The longest day of the year occurs around June 21st, with the sun rising at approximately 5:15 AM and setting around 8:50 PM.

In the winter months (December to February), sunrise occurs around 7:30 AM and sunset around 5:00 PM, resulting in approximately 9 hours of daylight. The shortest day of the year falls around December 21st, with the sun rising at approximately 7:45 AM and setting around 4:45 PM. These seasonal variations in sunrise and sunset times are due to the Earth’s tilt on its axis and its orbit around the sun.

Moonrise and Moonset Times

The Moon’s daily rise and set times in Binghamton, United States, vary throughout the year due to the Earth’s orbit around the Sun and the tilt of its axis. In general, the Moon rises earlier and sets later in the summer months, when the days are longer. Conversely, during the winter months, the Moon rises later and sets earlier.

To determine the exact moonrise and moonset times for a specific date, it is recommended to consult reliable astronomical resources, such as online calendars or mobile applications. These tools provide up-to-date information on celestial events for any location, including Binghamton. Additionally, local newspapers or community websites may publish moonrise and moonset times for the convenience of their readers.

Moon Phases

The Moon goes through a cycle of phases as it orbits the Earth. These phases are determined by the relative positions of the Sun, Earth, and Moon. The main phases include:

  • New Moon: The Moon is not visible, as it is positioned between the Earth and the Sun.
  • Waxing Crescent Moon: The Moon begins to become visible as a thin crescent, gradually increasing in size.
  • First Quarter Moon: Half of the Moon is illuminated, forming a half-circle shape.
  • Waxing Gibbous Moon: The illuminated portion of the Moon continues to increase, becoming more than half full.
  • Full Moon: The entire Moon is illuminated, appearing as a complete circle in the sky.
  • Waning Gibbous Moon: The illuminated portion of the Moon begins to decrease, becoming less than half full.
  • Third Quarter Moon: Half of the Moon is illuminated again, this time in the opposite direction of the first quarter moon.
  • Waning Crescent Moon: The illuminated portion of the Moon continues to decrease, gradually fading away until the new moon phase begins.

Average Humidity Levels

Binghamton, located in upstate New York, experiences moderate to high humidity levels throughout the year. The average annual relative humidity is around 70%, indicating that the air contains a significant amount of moisture. During the summer months (June to August), relative humidity levels can reach as high as 80-90%, creating a muggy and uncomfortable atmosphere. In contrast, winter months (December to February) are characterized by lower humidity levels, typically ranging from 50-65%.

Seasonal Variations in Humidity

Seasonal variations play a significant role in humidity levels in Binghamton. The city experiences high humidity during the spring (April and May) as temperatures rise and evaporation increases. This humidity persists through the summer, reaching its peak in July and August. As temperatures cool in the fall (September and October), humidity levels gradually decrease. By winter, the air becomes drier due to lower evaporation rates and colder temperatures, resulting in relatively low humidity levels.

Wind Patterns in Binghamton

Binghamton experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The city’s location in the Susquehanna River Valley influences its wind patterns, which are predominantly from the west and southwest. These prevailing winds bring warm, moist air from the Great Lakes region during the summer, contributing to the city’s high humidity levels. Conversely, during the winter months, cold, dry winds from the north and northwest sweep across the region, resulting in frigid temperatures and occasional snowstorms.

Seasonal Variation in Wind Speed

The wind speed in Binghamton varies throughout the year. During the spring and summer months, the average wind speed ranges from 8 to 10 miles per hour (mph). The highest wind speeds, reaching up to 12 mph, occur in March and April when the jet stream is positioned further north. In contrast, during the fall and winter months, the average wind speed drops to around 6 mph. The lowest wind speeds, typically below 5 mph, are observed in December and January when the atmosphere is more stable. These calmer wind conditions can lead to the formation of fog and freezing drizzle, creating hazardous driving conditions.

Spring (April-May):

Spring in Binghamton offers a captivating blend of rejuvenation and beauty. As nature awakens from winter’s slumber, vibrant wildflowers paint the landscapes, and lush greenery carpets the hillsides. Temperatures gradually rise, creating pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The city comes alive with festivals and events, such as the Binghamton Porchfest, where local musicians perform on porches throughout the neighborhood. Spring is also an ideal time to explore the surrounding natural attractions, including the Susquehanna River Valley and the Catskill Mountains, offering stunning hikes and scenic vistas.

Summer (June-August):

Summer in Binghamton is a season of vibrant warmth and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. Temperatures soar into the 80s, inviting visitors to soak up the sunshine at the Chenango Valley State Park’s swimming beach or embark on a refreshing kayak trip down the Susquehanna River. The city’s parks, like Otsiningo Park, come alive with picnics, concerts, and family-friendly events. Baseball enthusiasts will relish the chance to cheer on the Binghamton Rumble Ponies at their home games. As the summer reaches its peak, the region hosts the Broome County Fair, a beloved tradition showcasing local agriculture, food, and entertainment.

Solar Potential

Binghamton, located in upstate New York, possesses a moderate solar resource compared to other parts of the United States. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Binghamton receives an average of 4.0-4.5 peak sunlight hours per day, which equates to approximately 1,400-1,600 kWh of solar energy per square meter annually. This potential is comparable to other cities in the Northeast, such as Boston and Philadelphia. While not as abundant as solar-rich regions like California or Arizona, Binghamton’s solar resource is still suitable for the installation and utilization of solar panels.

Solar Adoption

Solar energy is gaining popularity in Binghamton, with an increasing number of homeowners, businesses, and institutions embracing the technology. In 2022, the city installed over 10,000 solar panels, bringing the city’s total solar capacity to nearly 10 megawatts. This growth is driven by various factors, including declining hardware costs, government incentives, and the desire for sustainable energy sources. Several solar companies are active in Binghamton, offering a range of services, from system design and installation to maintenance and monitoring. Additionally, the city has implemented solar-friendly policies, such as streamlined permitting processes and property tax exemptions for solar installations, further encouraging adoption.

Physiography

Binghamton, nestled in the Susquehanna River Valley, is a city characterized by undulating hills and riverine topography. The region is part of the Appalachian Plateau physiographic province, influenced by glaciation and erosion over time. The Susquehanna River, the city’s defining waterway, flows through the valley bottom, flanked by steep slopes and terraces. Binghamton’s topography has played a significant role in its development, with hills providing panoramic views and influencing the city’s infrastructure and transportation routes.

Geomorphology

The topography of Binghamton is largely attributed to the processes of glaciation and erosion. During the Pleistocene Epoch, glaciers advanced and retreated across the region, carving out valleys, shaping hills, and depositing glacial till. The Susquehanna River, a powerful force in the area’s geomorphic evolution, has eroded the landscape, creating a steep-sided gorge through the city. The city’s hills are primarily composed of sandstone and shale, remnants of ancient sedimentary deposits. The river valley is characterized by alluvial deposits, including sand, gravel, and silt carried downstream by the Susquehanna River. The combination of glacial and fluvial processes has resulted in the diverse and intricate topography of Binghamton, a testament to the geological forces that have shaped the region over millions of years.

Binghamton Regional Airport (BGM)

Binghamton Regional Airport (BGM) is the closest airport to Binghamton, United States. It is located just 6 miles (9.7 kilometers) east of the city center. BGM is a small airport with only one terminal and a few gates, but it offers a decent number of flights to and from major cities in the United States. Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines all provide service to BGM. The airport is also home to a few fixed-base operators (FBOs) that offer charter services and other aviation-related services.

Other nearby airports

If you are unable to find a flight to BGM that meets your needs or is outside of your budget, there are a few other airports that are within a reasonable driving distance of Binghamton. Elmira Corning Regional Airport (ELM) is located about 30 miles (48 kilometers) northeast of Binghamton, and it offers a wider variety of flights than BGM. However, ELM is a smaller airport than BGM, so it may not have as many flights available. Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) is located about 60 miles (97 kilometers) northwest of Binghamton, and it is the largest airport in the region. SYR offers a wide variety of flights to and from major cities in the United States and Canada. However, it is also the furthest airport from Binghamton, so it may not be the most convenient option for everyone.

History of Binghamton

Binghamton, nestled amidst the rolling hills of New York’s Southern Tier, boasts a rich and storied past. Originally inhabited by the Iroquois Confederacy, the city’s history took a pivotal turn with the arrival of European settlers in the 18th century. During the Revolutionary War, Binghamton served as a strategic outpost for both the British and American armies, and after the war, it became a major transportation hub thanks to its proximity to the Susquehanna River and Erie Canal. In the 19th century, Binghamton experienced a surge of industrial growth, particularly in the shoemaking industry, earning it the nickname “The Parlor City.” Today, Binghamton is a vibrant city that proudly embraces its heritage while looking towards the future.

Culture and Attractions in Binghamton

Binghamton offers a diverse array of cultural attractions that cater to all tastes. The city is home to several museums, including the Binghamton Philharmonic, the Roberson Museum and Mansion, and the Phelps Mansion Museum. These institutions showcase art, history, and culture through engaging exhibits and programs. Binghamton is also known for its lively arts scene, with venues such as the Broome County Forum Theatre and the Anderson Center at Binghamton University hosting performances by local and renowned artists. Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in the city’s numerous parks and nature trails, including the Susquehanna River Bicentennial Trail, which offers stunning views of the river and surrounding landscape. Binghamton’s culinary scene has gained recognition for its diverse dining options, from traditional American fare to international cuisine, ensuring that visitors can indulge in a wide range of culinary experiences.