Overview:
Binghamton, in south-central New York lies in a comparatively narrow valley at the confluence of the Susquehanna and Chenango Rivers. Within a radius of 5 miles, hills rise to elevations of 1,400-1,600 feet above mean sea level. In the spring, melting snow, sometimes supplemented by rainfall, occasionally causes flooding in the city and along the streams. Less frequently, heavy rains in the warmer months produce some flooding.
The climate of Binghamton is primarily continental in type. Being subject to cold air masses approaching from the west and north, this area has a variable climate. The temperature rises rapidly to moderate daytime levels with readings above 90ºF only a few days in any month. Winters are usually cold, but not commonly severe. A few sub-zero readings may be expected. The transitional seasons are the most variable of the year. Most of the precipitation in the area derives from air transported from the Gulf of Mexico and systems moving northward along the Atlantic coast. The annual rainfall is rather evenly distributed over the year. However, the greatest average monthly amounts occur during the growing season, April through September. As a rule, rainfall is ample for good crop growth and comes mostly in the form of thunderstorms. Annual snowfall is around 50 inches in Binghamton, and most of the snow falls during the winter months. However, heavy snow can occur as early as November and as late as April. Being under the influence of winds that sweep across Lakes Erie and Ontario, the area is subject to cloudiness and snow flurries.
State/ Province ID: NY
Station ID: W00004725
Directory Name: BINGHAMTON_HCN_NY_W00004725
Elevation: 489.50m