Colonie Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Climate

Colonie experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with average high temperatures in the mid-80s Fahrenheit (30s Celsius) and average lows in the low 70s F (20s C). Winters are cold and snowy, with average high temperatures in the mid-20s F (-5s C) and average lows in the teens F (-10s C). Spring and fall are transitional seasons, with milder temperatures and variable precipitation.

Average Weather Year Round

  • January: Average high of 31°F (-0.6°C), average low of 17°F (-8.3°C), average precipitation of 2.8 inches (7.1 cm)
  • February: Average high of 34°F (1.1°C), average low of 19°F (-7.2°C), average precipitation of 2.5 inches (6.4 cm)
  • March: Average high of 43°F (6.1°C), average low of 27°F (-2.8°C), average precipitation of 3.0 inches (7.6 cm)
  • April: Average high of 55°F (12.8°C), average low of 37°F (2.8°C), average precipitation of 3.5 inches (8.9 cm)
  • May: Average high of 67°F (19.4°C), average low of 48°F (8.9°C), average precipitation of 3.7 inches (9.4 cm)
  • June: Average high of 77°F (25°C), average low of 58°F (14.4°C), average precipitation of 3.4 inches (8.6 cm)
  • July: Average high of 82°F (27.8°C), average low of 63°F (17.2°C), average precipitation of 3.2 inches (8.1 cm)
  • August: Average high of 80°F (26.7°C), average low of 61°F (16.1°C), average precipitation of 3.5 inches (8.9 cm)
  • September: Average high of 71°F (21.7°C), average low of 51°F (10.6°C), average precipitation of 3.3 inches (8.4 cm)
  • October: Average high of 60°F (15.6°C), average low of 40°F (4.4°C), average precipitation of 3.1 inches (7.9 cm)
  • November: Average high of 47°F (8.3°C), average low of 31°F (-0.6°C), average precipitation of 3.1 inches (7.9 cm)
  • December: Average high of 36°F (2.2°C), average low of 22°F (-5.6°C), average precipitation of 2.7 inches (6.9 cm)

Summer Temperatures in Colonie, United States

Colonie, United States, experiences warm summers with average temperatures ranging from 65°F (18°C) to 85°F (29°C). The hottest months are July and August, with average high temperatures reaching 85°F (29°C) and above. Summer nights are generally mild, with temperatures dropping to around 65°F (18°C). The humidity levels during summer can be high, making it feel hotter than the actual temperature.

Winter Temperatures in Colonie, United States

Winters in Colonie are cold and snowy, with average temperatures hovering around freezing. January and February are the coldest months, with average low temperatures dropping below 20°F (-7°C). Snowfall is common during winter months, with an average of 50 inches (127 centimeters) falling throughout the season. Blizzards and extreme cold can occasionally occur, causing significant disruptions to daily life.

Cloud Types in Colonie

Colonie experiences various cloud types throughout the year due to its humid continental climate. Cirrus clouds, characterized by their thin, wispy appearance, are common in the area. They are composed of ice crystals and are often seen at high altitudes. Stratus clouds, on the other hand, appear as a uniform gray layer covering the sky. They often produce drizzle or light rain and are typically associated with overcast conditions. Cumulus clouds are puffy and detached, resembling cotton balls. They can indicate fair weather when small and isolated, but can evolve into larger, towering cumulonimbus clouds that produce thunderstorms.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation

The amount of cloud cover in Colonie influences the local weather patterns. Clear skies allow sunlight to reach the ground, resulting in warmer temperatures and reduced precipitation. Conversely, overcast skies prevent sunlight from reaching the ground, leading to cooler temperatures and increased humidity. Cloud cover also plays a role in the type of precipitation that occurs. Light rain or drizzle is often associated with stratus clouds, while thunderstorms and heavy rain are more likely to accompany cumulonimbus clouds. The frequency and intensity of precipitation in Colonie are influenced by the prevailing wind patterns, which bring moisture from nearby water bodies and contribute to cloud formation.

Rainfall Patterns
Colonie, located in New York state, experiences moderate rainfall throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of approximately 43 inches. The wettest months are typically April, May, and June, when rainfall can exceed 4 inches per month. During these months, frequent showers and thunderstorms occur, often accompanied by heavy downpours. July and August are also relatively wet, with monthly precipitation averaging around 3 inches.

Seasonal Variability
Rainfall patterns in Colonie exhibit seasonal variability, with distinct characteristics during different seasons. In the fall and winter months, precipitation tends to be more evenly distributed, often in the form of drizzle or light rain. Snowfall is also common during these months, particularly in December and January, with average snowfall accumulations ranging from 15 to 20 inches per month. Spring and summer are characterized by more intense and frequent rainfall events, as warm, humid air masses move into the area. Thunderstorms are common during these seasons, bringing heavy rain, lightning, and occasional hail.

Average Rainfall

Colonie enjoys abundant rainfall throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of around 40 inches. The wettest period is from April to June, with an average rainfall of over 4 inches per month. During these months, occasional thunderstorms and regular rain showers contribute to the high precipitation. From July to September, rainfall decreases slightly, averaging around 3 inches per month. However, Autumn typically brings more substantial rainfalls, with October and November averaging over 3.5 inches of precipitation.

Seasonal Variations

Winter in Colonie is characterized by moderate snowfall, with an average of 50 to 60 inches annually. Snowfall is heaviest from December to February, with frequent snowstorms. Despite the snow, the temperature remains relatively mild, rarely dropping below freezing during the day. Spring brings a gradual increase in rainfall, with April and May receiving around 3 inches of rain. Summers are warm and humid, with occasional thunderstorms that provide brief but heavy rainfall. Fall is a season of transition, with temperatures cooling and rainfall increasing. October and November typically experience the highest precipitation, setting the stage for the upcoming winter snowfall.

Historical Snowfall in Colonie

Colonie has a history of experiencing significant snowfall events. In January 1996, a massive blizzard dumped 30 inches of snow on the town, leading to widespread power outages and travel disruptions. More recently, the “Snowmageddon” storm of February 2013 brought 21.6 inches of snow to Colonie, making it one of the most severe snowstorms in the area’s history. These events highlight the significant impact that snowfall can have on the community.

Seasonal Patterns and Impacts of Snowfall

Colonie typically experiences snowfall from December through March, with peak accumulation occurring in January and February. During these months, snowfall can range from light flurries to heavy storms. The town’s proximity to the Albany metropolitan area results in a modified continental climate, which contributes to moderate snowfall totals. While snowfall can be a beautiful sight, it can also bring challenges, such as hazardous road conditions, school closures, and power outages. The town’s infrastructure and emergency services are equipped to handle snowfall, but residents should still prepare for winter weather conditions by stocking up on essentials and taking precautionary measures.

Climate:

Colonie, located in Upstate New York, experiences four distinct seasons with varying sunshine levels. Winters are generally cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to mid-30s Fahrenheit (-3 to 1 degree Celsius). During these months, the sun’s rays are often obscured by cloud cover, resulting in shorter days and limited sunshine. In spring, temperatures gradually rise, and the days become longer. April and May typically feature a mix of sunshine and rain, with average temperatures in the 40s and 50s (4-10 degrees Celsius).

Hours of Sunshine:

The amount of sunshine Colonie receives varies throughout the year. On average, the town gets around 2,200 hours of sunshine annually, with the highest levels occurring during the summer months. June, July, and August experience an average of 8-9 hours of sunshine per day, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (18-23 degrees Celsius). During these months, the sun provides ample warmth and light for outdoor activities. However, during the winter months, the town receives significantly less sunshine, with an average of only 3-4 hours per day, resulting in shorter, darker days.

Location and Accessibility

Colonie is a town in Albany County, New York, nestled approximately 12 miles north of the state capital. Within Colonie’s boundaries, the Moon is not physically present as it is a celestial body located millions of miles away in outer space. Therefore, it is not possible to visit or observe the Moon within Colonie’s geographical area.

Astronomical Observations

Although the Moon cannot be physically encountered in Colonie, residents can still enjoy astronomical observations of it. On clear nights, the Moon can be observed in the sky through telescopes, binoculars, or even the naked eye. The appearance of the Moon changes throughout its monthly cycle, offering varying views of its craters, mountains, and other features. By utilizing local astronomy clubs or attending stargazing events, residents of Colonie can explore the wonders of the cosmos and gain a deeper understanding of our solar system, including the Moon.

Average Humidity Levels

Colonie, United States experiences moderate humidity throughout the year, with average relative humidity (RH) levels ranging from 65% to 75%. The highest humidity occurs during the summer months, particularly in July and August, when average RH levels reach around 75%. Conversely, the lowest humidity occurs during the winter months, with average RH levels of approximately 65% in December and January.

Factors Influencing Humidity

Colonie’s humidity levels are influenced by several climatic factors, including temperature, rainfall, and proximity to bodies of water. Warm air can hold more moisture than cold air, resulting in higher humidity levels during the summer months. Additionally, Colonie’s location in the northeast United States, near the Atlantic Ocean, contributes to higher humidity levels due to the influx of moisture from the ocean. Rainfall also plays a role, with periods of heavy precipitation typically leading to an increase in humidity levels.

Wind Patterns and Wind Speed

Colonie, United States experiences a wide range of wind patterns throughout the year. During the winter months, winds tend to blow from the northwest, bringing cold, dry air from Canada. As spring approaches, the wind direction shifts to the southwest,带来更温暖、潮湿的空气，来自大西洋。夏季风来自西南部，带来温暖潮湿的空气，常常带来雷暴。在秋季，风向再次转向西北，带来凉爽、干燥的空气。

The average wind speed in Colonie is around 10 miles per hour (16 kilometers per hour). However, wind speeds can vary significantly depending on the time of year and the presence of weather systems. During the summer months, wind speeds tend to be lower, while during the winter months, wind speeds can reach up to 30 miles per hour (48 kilometers per hour). Colonie is also located in a region that is prone to severe thunderstorms, which can produce strong winds, hail, and heavy rain.

Summer (June-August)

The summer months in Colonie offer warm and comfortable weather, with average temperatures ranging from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This is an ideal time to explore the area’s parks and trails, such as the Mohawk Hudson Bike-Hike Trail, which stretches along the scenic Hudson River. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor concerts, festivals, and events in local parks like Tawasentha Park and Sagemont Park. The summer months are also perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing in the Mohawk River or nearby lakes.

Fall (September-November)

Autumn in Colonie welcomes a burst of vibrant colors as the leaves of deciduous trees transform into shades of gold, crimson, and orange. Temperatures gradually cool, ranging from 45 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a crisp and invigorating atmosphere. Fall is an excellent time for hiking, biking, or simply driving through the countryside to admire the vibrant foliage. Visitors can also indulge in apple picking at local orchards and enjoy pumpkin-carving festivities at nearby farms. The Halloween season brings out the spooky spirit in Colonie, with haunted house attractions and trick-or-treating events for all ages.

Potential and Challenges

Colonie, located in upstate New York, has a favorable solar resource with an average of 4.5 peak sunlight hours per day. This makes solar energy a viable option for meeting the town’s energy needs. However, the transition to solar faces challenges, including the high upfront costs of installation, the need for sufficient land area, and the potential impact on local aesthetics. To overcome these barriers, Colonie has implemented incentive programs and partnered with local businesses to promote solar adoption.

Municipal Initiatives and Community Engagement

The Town of Colonie has taken proactive steps to encourage solar development. Through its Solarize Colonie program, the town offers financial incentives and group discounts on solar installations. Additionally, Colonie has partnered with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to provide rebates and technical assistance to homeowners and businesses interested in solar energy. The town also hosts community events and workshops to raise awareness about the benefits of solar and connect residents with reputable contractors.

Topography of Colonie

Colonie, New York, exhibits a diverse topography influenced by geological processes that have shaped the region over millions of years. The area is situated on the southern edge of the Adirondack Mountains and is characterized by rolling hills and valleys. The highest point in Colonie is Anthony’s Nose, which rises to an elevation of 1,268 feet above sea level. Other prominent topographic features include the Helderberg Plateau, a series of flat-topped mountains that run along the eastern boundary of the town, and the Mohawk River Valley, which traverses the western part of Colonie. The Mohawk River, a major tributary of the Hudson River, has played a significant role in shaping the topography of the area, carving out a deep gorge and creating fertile floodplains.

Geology of Colonie

The underlying geology of Colonie is largely composed of sedimentary rocks, including sandstone, shale, and limestone. These rocks were formed during the Paleozoic Era, approximately 540 to 250 million years ago, when the area was submerged beneath a shallow sea. Over time, these sediments accumulated, forming thick layers that were later uplifted and folded by tectonic forces. The Helderberg Plateau, for instance, is primarily composed of limestone, a sedimentary rock formed from the accumulation of marine organisms. The topography of Colonie has also been influenced by glacial activity during the last ice age. The retreat of the glaciers left behind moraines, eskers, and other glacial landforms that contribute to the region’s unique topography.

Albany International Airport (ALB)

Albany International Airport (ALB) is the closest airport to Colonie, located approximately 6 miles away. It is a mid-sized airport serving the Capital Region of New York, with a variety of domestic and international flights available. ALB offers direct flights to major cities such as New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Atlanta. The airport also provides connections to other destinations worldwide through connecting flights. With its modern facilities and convenient location, ALB is a popular choice for travelers in the area.

Schenectady County Airport (SCH)

Schenectady County Airport (SCH) is another nearby option, situated approximately 20 miles northwest of Colonie. It is a smaller airport primarily serving business aviation and general aviation. SCH offers limited commercial flights, with Allegiant Air providing seasonal service to Orlando, Florida. However, due to its limited flight options, SCH may not be the most convenient choice for travelers seeking a wide range of destinations and schedules.

History of Colonie, United States

Colonie, New York, was founded in 1686 as part of the Rensselaerswyck Manor, a Dutch patroonship. The area was initially settled by Dutch colonists and later by German, Irish, and English immigrants. During the American Revolution, Colonie played a role in the Battle of Saratoga, a turning point in the war. The town grew rapidly in the 19th century, thanks to the construction of the Erie Canal and the influx of immigrants from Europe. Colonie remained a primarily agricultural community until the mid-20th century, when it experienced rapid suburbanization.

Geography of Colonie, United States

Colonie is located in Albany County, New York, and is part of the Capital Region. The town has a total area of 46.9 square miles (121.5 km2), of which 45.2 square miles (117.1 km2) is land and 1.7 square miles (4.4 km2) is water. Colonie is bounded by the Mohawk River to the north and the Hudson River to the east. The town is home to several parks and open spaces, including the Albany Pine Bush Preserve, the largest inland pine barrens in New York State. Colonie is also home to several lakes and reservoirs, including the Normans Kill Reservoir, which supplies drinking water to the town.