There's no question that we've had our fair share of hot weather this summer.

What You Need To Know

  • Syracuse has had 18 days with highs in the 90s this year

  • 2021 is currently ranked among the top 16 years with the most 90-degree days on record

  • The average number of 90-degree days in September is one

  • This September is expected to end up warmer than average

It seems like we managed to hit the 90-degree mark almost every week this summer and last week was no different.

High temperatures climbed into the lower 90s both August 25 and August 26. This put our total number of 90-degree days this year at 18, so far. 

Comparisons to past years

The 18 day total ranks us among the top 16 years with the most 90-degree days on record.

The years 1933, 1934, 1941, 1953, and 1964 all recorded 18 days with high temperatures of 90 or hotter.

Last year, we totaled 21 days with highs in the 90s, the final day being August 24.

As we have now surpassed that date, what are our chances of having more 90-degree days in September?

September heat

September is no stranger to summer warmth, especially considering the fall season doesn't begin until September 22.

However, the occurrence of 90-degree days is more of a rarity in the month of September. The average number of 90-degree days is one.

Since record keeping began in 1902, the overwhelming majority of past years have had no 90-degree days in September.

Exceptions do exist though. In September of 1931, Syracuse had a record-breaking total of 7 days with highs in the 90s.

Outlook for September 2021

Based on the current forecast and the temperature outlooks provided by the Climate Prediction Center, this September will start out cooler than average. Temperatures will have a hard time getting any warmer than the 70s through the first week.

While the first half of the month looks cooler than average, a pattern shift is expected though for the second half of September with the forecast calling for above average temperatures. Temperatures do appear to warm enough to overcome the cooler than average start. This means the month of September looks to be above average overall.

As we approach the start of fall, average highs will continue to fall through the 70s, so at face-value it may not seem all that impressive as it is a feat that could easily be accomplished with highs in the 80s.

My prediction? I wouldn't rule out getting one more day of 90-degree heat over the next month.September is no stranger to summer warmth, especially considering the fall season doesn't begin until September 22.