
Stony Brook University weather features a humid subtropical climate with distinct four seasons, making it appealing for those considering life on campus in Stony Brook. Winters bring cold snaps around 30°F (-1°C) with snowfall averaging 27 inches, while summers reach 80°F (27°C) with high humidity. Spring and fall offer mild transitions ideal for outdoor campus activities. Understanding the weather in Stony Brook helps students, faculty, staff, parents, and job seekers prepare for impacts on daily life, from commuting to study focus. Environmental factors like good air quality and low altitude near sea level contribute to high liveability, though occasional nor'easters pose challenges. Ratings highlight comfort and safety, with tips on costs for winter gear and university resources for preparedness. Explore how the Stony Brook University climate affects productivity and wellness. Search higher-ed-jobs at Stony Brook University while planning your move, and check Rate My Professor for student insights on campus life.
The weather at Stony Brook University reflects Long Island's coastal influence, with annual temperatures averaging 52°F (11°C). Precipitation totals about 47 inches yearly, distributed across seasons. Extremes include summer highs of 100°F (38°C) and winter lows of -10°F (-23°C). These patterns support a vibrant campus but require adaptation for events like heavy snow or humid heat. Faculty and students appreciate the balanced climate for research outdoors or lectures. Links to Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in New York, and city pages provide broader context.
Stony Brook University experiences varied seasons affecting schedules and costs. Winter demands heavy coats (extra $200-300/year), while summer AC hikes utilities ($100/month). Safety tips include salted paths; equipment like boots is essential.
Dec-Feb: 25-40°F (-4 to 4°C), 8 inches snow/month. University delays classes during blizzards.
Mar-May: 45-65°F (7-18°C), rainy (12 inches). Pollen alerts via campus app.
Jun-Aug: 70-85°F (21-29°C), humid. Outdoor events thrive; fans recommended.
Sep-Nov: 50-70°F (10-21°C), 12 inches rain. Peak foliage enhances campus beauty.
Near sea level (altitude 164 ft), Stony Brook has stable geology with no volcanic activity. Air quality is generally good (AQI 40 average), supporting health for commuters. Low pollution density benefits respiratory health, though traffic near campus adds minor PM2.5. Stony Brook University promotes green initiatives like bike paths. The Stony Brook environment fosters sustainable living.
Risks include coastal flooding from nor'easters (every 2-3 years), blizzards, and rare hurricanes. Droughts are uncommon; wildfires low risk. University protocols feature email alerts, evacuation drills, and emergency housing.
| Hazard | Frequency | University Response |
|---|---|---|
| Flooding | Occasional | Barriers, alerts |
| Snowstorms | Annual | Closures, plowing |
| Hurricanes | Rare | Evac plans |
Ratings for Stony Brook University weather and environment guide decisions on comfort and safety.
These scores reflect impacts on campus life; explore Rate My Professor at Stony Brook University.
Budget $150-250 yearly for coats, boots, umbrellas. Utilities rise $150/winter for heat. Insurance covers storm damage. Prep with free-resume-template for jobs funding gear. Higher-ed-jobs/faculty at Stony Brook University await.
Humidity aids skin but winter dry air prompts humidifiers. Transportation via bus resilient to snow. Campus life thrives with indoor facilities. Health center treats cold/flu spikes. United States jobs enhance living standards.
Students often note how Stony Brook University weather influences focus, with mild falls boosting productivity but snowy winters requiring indoor study habits. Many discuss the local climate's role in outdoor research or commuting challenges in rain; read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor. Feedback highlights air quality supporting health during long semesters. Rate My Professor reveals how environment shapes campus satisfaction at Stony Brook University.
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