Syracuse Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – United States

Winter
Syracuse experiences cold, snowy winters. The average temperature in January, the coldest month, is 21°F (-6°C). Snowfall is common, with an average of 124 inches (3.15 meters) per year, heaviest from late November to early April. The combination of cold temperatures and snowfall can create hazardous driving conditions and extreme cold can be life-threatening if not taken precautions.

Spring and Fall
Spring and fall are transitional seasons in Syracuse, with moderate temperatures and varying precipitation. Spring typically brings warmer temperatures, averaging 45°F (7°C) in April, with occasional rainfall. Fall is a time of changing foliage, with temperatures gradually cooling down from 60°F (16°C) in September to 45°F (7°C) in November. Precipitation is common in both seasons, with an average of 3 to 4 inches (7.62 to 10.16 centimeters) of rain per month.

Average Temperature in Syracuse, United States

Syracuse, a city in the state of New York, United States, experiences a continental climate with significant seasonal variations in temperature. The average annual temperature in Syracuse is 48.7°F (9.3°C), with July being the warmest month with an average temperature of 72.8°F (22.7°C), and January being the coldest month with an average temperature of 23.2°F (-5°C). The city experiences hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters.

During the summer months (June to August), temperatures in Syracuse can reach up to the low 90s Fahrenheit (mid-30s Celsius), with high humidity levels that can make it feel even warmer. The nights are typically warm and muggy, with temperatures rarely dropping below 60°F (16°C). In the winter months (December to February), temperatures can drop to below zero Fahrenheit (-18°C), and snow is common, with an average annual snowfall of 120 inches (305 cm). The city can experience extreme cold during the winter, with wind chill temperatures dropping well below zero Fahrenheit. Spring and fall in Syracuse are typically mild, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit (4°C to 16°C), and occasional rain or snow.

Cloud Types in Syracuse

Syracuse, located in central New York, experiences a wide variety of cloud formations throughout the year. Common cloud types include cirrus, stratus, and cumulus clouds. Cirrus clouds are thin, wispy clouds that appear high in the sky and are composed of ice crystals. Stratus clouds are flat, gray clouds that cover the entire sky, often resulting in overcast conditions. Cumulus clouds are white, puffy clouds that indicate fair weather when they appear in small amounts. However, when cumulus clouds grow vertically and merge together, they can develop into towering cumulonimbus clouds, which may produce thunderstorms.

Cloud Cover and Precipitation

The amount of cloud cover in Syracuse varies significantly throughout the year. During the winter months, cloud cover is typically more persistent due to the presence of cold fronts and low-pressure systems. In the summer, cloud cover is often less prevalent as high-pressure systems dominate, resulting in clearer skies. Syracuse receives an average of about 40 inches of precipitation annually, which includes both rain and snow. The frequency and intensity of precipitation is influenced by the type of clouds present. Cirrus clouds rarely produce precipitation, while stratus clouds can result in drizzle or light rain. Cumulus clouds can develop into rainclouds, and cumulonimbus clouds often produce heavy rain, lightning, and hail.

Average Precipitation

Syracuse experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year, with an average of 38.88 inches annually. Winter months typically receive the most snow, averaging 123.5 inches during December, January, and February. Spring and summer months tend to bring the most rain, with May and June being the wettest months. July and August offer the least precipitation, making them the driest months of the year.

Seasonal Variations

Precipitation patterns vary noticeably throughout the seasons. Winter storms often bring heavy snow and freezing rain, making travel conditions challenging. Spring and fall witness frequent rain showers, often accompanied by thunderstorms. Summer months generally experience less precipitation, with occasional thunderstorms and scattered showers. The autumn season brings both rain and snow, as temperatures begin to cool.

Annual Precipitation

Syracuse experiences a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of around 35 inches. Most of the precipitation falls during the spring and summer months, when thunderstorms are common. However, the city also receives a significant amount of snowfall during the winter, with an average of 120 inches per year.

Seasonal Variations

Rainfall in Syracuse varies significantly throughout the year. The wettest months are typically May and June, with an average of over 4 inches of rain each month. The driest months are typically January and February, with an average of around 2 inches of rain each month. Snowfall is most common during the months of December, January, and February, when the city can receive over 20 inches of snow in a single month.

Historical Snowfall Patterns

Syracuse, New York, is renowned for its heavy snowfall, earning it the moniker “Snow City.” The city experiences an average annual snowfall of 123.8 inches (314.6 cm), ranking it among the snowiest cities in the United States. Snowfall in Syracuse typically begins in November and continues through April, with the heaviest snowfall occurring in January and February. The city has recorded numerous snowfall records, including a record-breaking 192.2 inches (488.2 cm) of snowfall during the 1992-1993 winter season.

Impact of Snowfall on Syracuse

The heavy snowfall in Syracuse has a significant impact on the city’s infrastructure and daily life. Snow accumulation can lead to transportation disruptions, power outages, and property damage. The city has implemented various measures to mitigate these impacts, including a comprehensive snow removal system, snow emergency plans, and public awareness campaigns. Additionally, snowfall can have a positive effect on the city’s economy, supporting winter sports and tourism activities. The annual New York State Winter Games are held in the Syracuse area, showcasing various winter sports and attracting participants and spectators from across the region.

Sunrise and Sunset Times

In Syracuse, United States, the timing of sunrise and sunset varies throughout the year due to the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the Sun. During the summer months, from June to August, the days are longer with sunrise occurring around 5:30 AM and sunset around 8:30 PM. This provides ample daylight hours for outdoor activities and recreation.

In contrast, during the winter months, from December to February, the days are shorter with sunrise occurring around 7:30 AM and sunset around 5:00 PM. The reduced daylight hours can lead to a shift in daily routines and require the use of artificial lighting for essential activities. However, the shorter days also present opportunities for stargazing and enjoying the celestial beauty of the night sky.

Climate and Humidity in Syracuse, New York

Syracuse, New York, experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The city’s location in the northeastern United States exposes it to both tropical and polar air masses, resulting in significant seasonal variations in temperature and humidity.

During the summer months, Syracuse’s average high temperature ranges from the low 70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (23-29 Celsius), with average humidity levels hovering around 60-70%. The warm, muggy conditions can be uncomfortable at times, particularly during heat waves when temperatures can soar into the 90s (32-37 Celsius). These high humidity levels can exacerbate heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. It is important to stay hydrated and seek cool, shaded areas during these periods.

Wind Patterns and Speed

Syracuse, New York, experiences a humid continental climate with significant seasonal variations in temperature. The wind patterns in Syracuse are primarily influenced by the prevailing westerlies, which bring prevailing winds from the west-southwest. These winds are typically strongest during the winter months, when cold air from Canada pushes southward. During the summer, winds tend to be lighter and more variable in direction, with occasional thunderstorms bringing gusty winds.

The average wind speed in Syracuse is around 10 mph (16 km/h), with higher speeds occurring during the winter months. The strongest winds typically occur in January, when average speeds can exceed 15 mph (24 km/h). The windiest day on record in Syracuse occurred on January 14, 1952, when gusts reached 70 mph (113 km/h). In contrast, the calmest months are typically July and August, with average wind speeds below 10 mph (16 km/h).

Spring (March-May):

Spring in Syracuse brings a refreshing awakening as the city shakes off the winter slumber. The average temperatures range from mild to warm, making it perfect for outdoor exploration. The city’s parks and gardens burst into vibrant colors with blooming flowers, while the air fills with the sweet scent of lilacs and honeysuckle. This season offers a pleasant balance, allowing visitors to enjoy the outdoors without the oppressive heat of summer. Furthermore, the spring festivals and events add to the lively atmosphere, showcasing the city’s cultural heritage and vibrant spirit.

Summer (June-August):

Syracuse summers are known for their warm and sunny days, ideal for beachgoers and water enthusiasts. With average temperatures soaring into the 70s and 80s, the city’s many lakes and beaches provide a welcome respite from the heat. The beaches of Onondaga Lake and Oneida Lake offer swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities, while the Syracuse Inner Harbor hosts lively concerts and outdoor events. However, it’s important to note that summer in Syracuse can also experience periods of high humidity, which can make the heat feel more intense.

Solar Energy Potential in Syracuse

Syracuse, New York enjoys abundant sunshine, with an average of 200 sunny days annually. This makes it a favorable location for solar energy development. The city’s solar potential is estimated at 1,500 megawatts (MW), which is sufficient to power approximately 500,000 homes. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has identified several areas within Syracuse with high solar irradiance, including industrial rooftops and open land.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the ample solar potential, Syracuse faces challenges related to its cold climate. During winter months, snow cover and low temperatures can reduce solar panel efficiency. To overcome these challenges, solar installations in Syracuse typically utilize advanced technologies such as snow-melting panels and solar trackers. Additionally, the city has implemented incentive programs and policies to encourage solar adoption, including property tax exemptions, performance-based incentives, and net metering.

The Marcellus Shale

The Marcellus Shale is a sedimentary rock formation that underlies much of New York State, including Syracuse. The shale is composed of fine-grained sedimentary rocks, such as siltstone and shale, that were deposited during the Devonian Period. The Marcellus Shale is a major source of natural gas in the United States, and it is estimated to contain up to 500 trillion cubic feet of gas. The Marcellus Shale has been a major economic driver for the Syracuse area, and it has led to the creation of thousands of jobs.

Syracuse’s Glacial History

The Syracuse area was heavily glaciated during the last ice age, which ended about 10,000 years ago. The glaciers carved out the landscape, creating the Finger Lakes and the Onondaga Escarpment. The glaciers also deposited a thick layer of till, or glacial debris, over much of the area. The till is a mixture of clay, silt, sand, and gravel. It is a very fertile soil, and it is one of the reasons why the Syracuse area is a major agricultural region.

Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR)

Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) is the primary airport serving the city of Syracuse, New York. Located approximately 5 miles northwest of downtown Syracuse, SYR is the busiest airport in Central New York and offers both domestic and international flights. The airport features three terminals, with the main terminal housing the majority of gates and amenities. SYR serves as a hub for both American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, providing convenient connections to destinations throughout the United States and beyond.

Other Nearby Airports

In addition to Syracuse Hancock International Airport, there are several other airports within a reasonable driving distance of Syracuse:

• Greater Binghamton Airport (BGM): Located approximately 70 miles south of Syracuse, BGM offers limited commercial service, primarily to larger cities in the Northeast.
• Rochester International Airport (ROC): Situated approximately 90 miles west of Syracuse, ROC provides a wider range of flight options, including connections to major hubs like Atlanta, Chicago, and New York City.
• Elmira Corning Regional Airport (ELM): Located approximately 60 miles southeast of Syracuse, ELM offers limited commercial service to cities in the Northeast and Midwest.

History of Syracuse

Syracuse was founded in 1804 and was originally known as Salt Point for its salt springs. The city grew rapidly after the completion of the Erie Canal in 1825, which connected the city to the Great Lakes and made it a major transportation hub. Syracuse was also a major center of the abolitionist movement and was home to several prominent abolitionists, including Gerrit Smith and Samuel May.

Culture and Attractions

Syracuse is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. The city is home to several museums, including the Everson Museum of Art and the Museum of Science and Technology. Syracuse is also home to several theaters, including the Syracuse Stage and the Redhouse Arts Center. The city has a lively music scene, with several venues hosting live music, including the Westcott Theater and the Funk ‘n’ Waffles.