Spring weather plays hide and seek in Central New York before summer heat arrives

The Northeast often keeps its residents guessing in May, and Central New York residents should pack a light jacket this week. A stubborn low-pressure system drifting overhead keeps clouds parked and showers popping up randomly. Most spots see only drizzle or brief light rain, with totals barely enough to wet sidewalks. Mid-May warmth usually hits the upper 60s, but this week feels more like early April, stuck in the mid-50s.

As the system creeps toward the coast, a final batch of moisture slides in Thursday night, though amounts stay under a quarter inch. By Friday morning, the sky slowly starts to clear from the west. Once the sun breaks through Friday afternoon, temperatures pop back into the low 60s—still cool but noticeably brighter. Weekend forecast shifts dramatically: Saturday turns dry and bright with highs near 80. Sunday stays pleasant, with only small chances of late-day sprinkles while thermometers climb into the upper 70s. Next week’s heat burst kicks off Monday under clear skies, pushing readings well into the 80s for the first time this year. Some towns might even flirt with 90 degrees. Humidity joins the party Monday night but remains manageable. Tuesday brings pop-up thunderstorms as warmth peaks, while Wednesday’s front could bring gusty winds and heavier downpours.

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