Climate of New York facts for kids

The climate of New York is quite varied, stretching from the Atlantic coast to the Great Lakes and Appalachian Mountains. This means different parts of the state experience different weather patterns throughout the year. New York is known for its four distinct seasons: warm summers, cool autumns, cold winters, and mild springs.

What is New York's Climate Like?

New York experiences a humid continental climate. This type of climate is found in the middle latitudes, where there are significant temperature differences between summer and winter. It's called "humid" because there's usually enough rainfall and humidity throughout the year.

How Do Seasons Change in New York?

New York's climate is famous for its clear changes between seasons.

Summer Weather in New York

Summers, from June to August, are generally warm and humid. Average temperatures often range from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). Sometimes, temperatures can even reach over 90°F (32°C), especially in July. Thunderstorms are common during summer afternoons, bringing heavy rain and sometimes lightning.

Autumn's Cool Air in New York

Autumn, from September to November, is a favorite season for many. The weather becomes cooler and drier, and the leaves on trees change to beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow. Temperatures usually range from 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C). This is a great time for outdoor activities like apple picking.

Winter's Snow and Cold in New York

Winters, from December to February, are cold and snowy. Temperatures often drop below freezing, ranging from 20°F to 35°F (-7°C to 2°C). Snowfall is common across the state, especially in areas near the Great Lakes, where "lake-effect snow" can bring very heavy snowfalls. Coastal areas, like New York City, usually get less snow than upstate regions.

Spring's Mild Temperatures in New York

Spring, from March to May, brings warmer temperatures and melting snow. The weather can be a bit unpredictable, with some days feeling like winter and others like summer. Average temperatures range from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 16°C). This is when plants start to grow again, and flowers bloom.

How Does Geography Affect New York's Climate?

New York's varied landscape plays a big role in its climate.

Coastal Areas and Their Climate

New York City and Long Island are close to the Atlantic Ocean. The ocean helps to keep these areas a bit warmer in winter and cooler in summer compared to inland regions. This is because water heats up and cools down more slowly than land. So, New York City often has milder winters and slightly less extreme summer heat than areas further inland.

Upstate Regions and Their Climate

Areas like the Adirondack Mountains and regions near the Great Lakes (like Buffalo and Rochester) have different climates. The mountains are generally colder and receive more snow. The Great Lakes cause "lake-effect snow" when cold air moves over the warmer lake waters, picking up moisture and dropping it as heavy snow on the downwind side of the lakes. This can lead to huge snowfalls in places like Buffalo.

Inland Valleys and Their Climate

Inland valleys, like the Hudson Valley, experience more typical continental weather. They can have hotter summers and colder winters than coastal areas, with less influence from the ocean.

What Are Extreme Weather Events in New York?

New York can experience various types of extreme weather.

Thunderstorms and Tornadoes

During summer, strong thunderstorms are common. Sometimes, these storms can become severe, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and even hail. While not as common as in the Midwest, tornadoes can occasionally occur in New York, especially during spring and summer.

Winter Storms and Blizzards

Winter storms can bring significant snowfall and icy conditions, making travel difficult. Blizzards, which combine heavy snow with strong winds, can create whiteout conditions and cause power outages.

Tropical Storms and Hurricanes

Although New York is far north, it can be affected by the remnants of tropical storms and hurricanes that move up the East Coast. These storms can bring very heavy rainfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding, especially to New York City and Long Island. For example, Hurricane Sandy in 2012 caused widespread damage and flooding in coastal areas.

Why is Climate Important to New York?

Understanding New York's climate is important for many reasons. It affects everything from farming and tourism to how people build their homes and plan their daily lives. For example, farmers choose crops that can grow well in the local climate, and ski resorts rely on cold, snowy winters.