Climate and monthly weather forecast
Cortland, NY

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A monument from the civil war stands high in the neat lawns near the iconic courthouse in the Courthouse Park in Cortland, New York
A monument from the civil war stands high in the neat lawns near the iconic courthouse in the Courthouse Park in Cortland, New York

The climate of Cortland

Cortland, located in New York State, USA, sits in the tempering influence of the Great Lakes, rendering it with a Dfb, or Humid Continental Climate, under the Köppen climate classification system. This kind of climate suggests no dry season accompanied by a warm summer. Moreover, it recognizes a certain division of the year into separate hot and cold seasons.

Equipped with an overall climate trend, a more detailed examination of various parameters helps draw finer distinctions. Cortland serves up a true taste of the four seasons with temperature highs varying from 27°F (-2.8°C) in winter to as much as 77.9°F (25.5°C) during the height of summer. Low temperatures also showcase such diversity, starting at 15.8°F (-9°C) in the coldest month and peaking at 57.7°F (14.3°C). The humidity remains relatively uniform throughout the year, floating around the 80% mark, with the highest at 88% during the colder months.

An examination of precipitation paints an intriguing picture. It is interesting to observe that the amount of rainfall appears to peak during the transitions between seasons. The months of May and July record the highest rainfall with an average of 2.48" (63mm), while the least rain is seen in November at 1.34" (34mm).

The best time to visit Cortland

Understanding the climatic conditions paves the way for determining the most favorable time to visit. The months from May to September present the most inviting weather. While May records the higher temperature of 65.7°F (18.7°C), September retains a pleasant temperature in the region of 69.1°F (20.6°C). Humidity is relatively lower during these months, with ample daylight that averages from 14.6 hours to 12.5 hours. This period also features more hours of sunshine varying from 8.3 hours to 8.6 hours. However, visitors should note the potentially higher rainfall during this period.

The worst time to visit Cortland

With respect to unfavorable times to visit, the harsh winter months from December to February stand out. Average high temperatures during this period range from 27°F (-2.8°C) to 33.1°F (0.6°C), with even colder temperature lows falling between 15.8°F (-9°C) to 23.7°F (-4.6°C). These months also witness the highest snowfall, exceeding 4" (102mm) in December and February. The shorter daylight hours and decreased sunshine also contribute to making these months less desirable for tourist visits.

Spring weather in Cortland

Weather transition from winter’s deep freeze to warmer conditions begins in March. Spring temperatures see a gradual increase, starting at a high of 39.6°F (4.2°C) in March and culminating at 65.7°F (18.7°C) in May. Evenings remain colder, usually falling in the range of 24.8°F (-4°C) to 46°F (7.8°C). It’s also the relatively wet season, with approximately 2.13" (54mm) of rainfall in April and inching up to 2.48" (63mm) in May.

Summer weather in Cortland

Cortland's summer reveals New York's fair weather side, stretching from June to August, with temperatures in July reaching a peak of 77.9°F (25.5°C). Mornings showcase slightly lower temperatures in the range of 52.2°F (11.2°C) to 57.7°F (14.3°C). Consistent daylight over 14 hours and abundant sun at around 10 hours display the hallmark of Cortland's summer. Barring the high rainfall of 2.48" (63mm) in July, the summer months offer a promising period for visitors.

Autumn weather in Cortland

The passage of summer into autumn, from September to November, ushers in a season of change. With daily highs gradually dipping down from 69.1°F (20.6°C) to 43.3°F (6.3°C) and lower evening temperatures ranging from 50.5°F (10.3°C) to 31.1°F (-0.5°C), autumn’s charm lies in the moderate conditions it offers. November sees less rainfall at 1.34" (34mm) and cloud coverage begins to increase.

Winter weather in Cortland

Winter sets in from December and holds sway until February. The cold intensifies as temperatures hover between 27°F (-2.8°C) to 33.1°F (0.6°C) while plunging further to between 15.8°F (-9°C) to 23.7°F (-4.6°C) during the nights. Winters in Cortland also present the maximum snowfall, exceeding 4" (102mm) in December and February. As sunshine hours reduce, the pressure phenomena reveal a slight increase. This suggests associated cold fronts, characteristic of winter weather patterns prevalent in Cortland.

Weather in January

The New Year in Cortland, New York, begins with January, embodying the true spirit of winter. Temperatures roughly circle between 15.8°F (-9°C) and 27°F (-2.8°C), making it one of the coldest months of the year. Snowfall reaches 4.49" (114mm), and the wind gusts frequently hit speeds of 15.9mph (25.6km/h). Weather in January »

Weather in February

February follows January's trend, with still harsh but slightly warmer winter weather in Cortland. February's lowest temperature is 17.4°F (-8.1°C) while the highest increases to 30.2°F (-1°C). Snowfall increases to a peak of 5.75" (146mm) in Cortland, showing a seasonal escalation from January. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March brings the much-awaited beginning of spring in Cortland, but the remnants of winter still linger. The weather gradually warms, with temperatures ranging from 24.8°F (-4°C) to 39.6°F (4.2°C). Melted snow gives way to rainfall, with March recording roughly 1.5" (38mm). Weather in March »

Weather in April

As warmer temperatures prevail, April ushers in the full bloom of spring in Cortland. The temperature range expands from 35.1°F (1.7°C) to 52.3°F (11.3°C), marking the season's subtle but consistent warming trend. The rainfall peaks in April at 2.13" (54mm), supporting an array of blossoming flowers and budding trees. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May displays the true magnitude of spring weather in Cortland, with temperatures reaching between 46°F (7.8°C) and 65.7°F (18.7°C). Precipitation peaks at 2.48" (63mm), nourishing the abundant plant life that now swathes the city in green. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June invites summer into Cortland, setting the stage for the city's warmest season. Cortland experiences temperatures between 52.2°F (11.2°C) and 72.3°F (22.4°C), signalling the beginning of balmy days. Cumulative sunshine hours reach 9.2 hours, offering ample opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor pursuits. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July showcases the peak of summer heat in Cortland as temperatures venture from 57.7°F (14.3°C) up to 77.9°F (25.5°C). This period is distinguished as the hottest month in Cortland, with the longest sunshine duration accruing to 10.1 hours. Weather in July »

Weather in August

Cortland enjoys a warm and friendly August, retaining some of the peak summer heat. With temperatures fluctuating between 55.9°F (13.3°C) and 75.4°F (24.1°C), the city continues to bask in delightful summer weather. It is a popular time for outdoor gatherings and events, taking advantage of Cortland's pleasant and consistent climate. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September in Cortland ushers in a much-awaited transition from summer to fall. Weather patterns change as temperatures plummet from 50.5°F (10.3°C) to 69.1°F (20.6°C). August's heat gives way to a crispness in the air, indicating the approaching autumn. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October affirms the full arrival of fall in Cortland. The temperatures exhibit a noticeable dip, hovering between 41.9°F (5.5°C) and 56.7°F (13.7°C). The amount of rainfall increases to 1.97" (50mm), feeding the thriving flora before winter's arrival. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November brings a palpable chill to the air as Cortland begins to transition into winter. The temperature typically falls between 31.1°F (-0.5°C) and 43.3°F (6.3°C). Snowfall begins again in November, amounting to approximately 3.43" (87mm) spread over 8.9 days. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December in Cortland welcomes the winter season in full swing. With the temperatures oscillating between 23.7°F (-4.6°C) and 33.1°F (0.6°C), the city becomes a frosty wonderland. A noteworthy 4.8" (122mm) of snow covers the city, contributing significantly to the yearly total. Weather in December »

Frequently asked questions

What month is the coldest?

With average temperatures fluctuating between a high of 27°F (-2.8°C) and a low of 15.8°F (-9°C), January stands out as the coldest month.

What are the most humid months?

January and February, with an average relative humidity of 88%, are most humid months in Cortland.

How many days does it rain in Cortland?

In Cortland, during the entire year, the rain falls for 149.8 days and collects up to 22.36" (568mm) of precipitation.

When does it snow?

Months with snowfall in Cortland are January through May, October through December.

How much does it snow?

Throughout the year, there are 79.7 snowfall days, and 24.06" (611mm) of snow is accumulated.

What is the month with the lowest UV index in Cortland?

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

What is the snowiest month?

February is the month with the most snowfall. Snow falls for 17.6 days and accumulates 5.75" (146mm) of 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?

April and May, with an average relative humidity of 80%, are the least humid months.

What is the rainiest month?

The months with the most rainfall are May and July, with an average 2.48" (63mm) of precipitation.

When is the highest UV index?

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

When it does not snow in Cortland?

June through September are months without snowfall.

When are the longest days?

June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 15h and 18min of daylight.

What time of the year is the hottest?

July is the warmest month, with an average high-temperature of 77.9°F (25.5°C) and an average low-temperature of 57.7°F (14.3°C).

What month has the most sunshine in Cortland?

July has the most sunshine of the year, with an average of 10.1h of sunshine.

What is the driest month?

The month with the least rainfall is November, when the rain falls for 9.3 days and typically collects 1.34" (34mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days?

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

Average temperature
Cortland, NY

Average temperature - Cortland, NY

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (77.9°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (27°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is July (57.7°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (15.8°F).

Average pressure
Cortland, NY

Average pressure - Cortland, NY

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.1"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.93"Hg).

Average wind speed
Cortland, NY

Average wind speed - Cortland, NY

The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (9.8mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (5.9mph).

Average humidity
Cortland, NY

Average humidity - Cortland, NY

The months with the highest relative humidity are January and February (88%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are April and May (80%).

Average rainfall
Cortland, NY

Average rainfall - Cortland, NY

The wettest months (with the highest rainfall) are May and July (2.48").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is November (1.34").

Average rainfall days
Cortland, NY

Average rainfall days - Cortland, NY

The month with the highest number of rainy days is July (17.8 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (5.7 days).

Average snowfall
Cortland, NY

Average snowfall - Cortland, NY

The month with the highest snowfall is February (5.75").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").

Average snowfall days
Cortland, NY

Average snowfall days - Cortland, NY

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (18.2 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Cortland, NY

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Cortland, 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 6min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 2h and 24min).

Average sunshine days
Cortland, NY

Average sunshine days - Cortland, NY

The month with the most sunshine days is September (15.8 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is February (7.7 days).

Average UV index
Cortland, NY

Average UV index - Cortland, 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, February and December (UV index 1).

Average cloud cover
Cortland, NY

Average cloud cover - Cortland, 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 36).

Cortland, New York, USA

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