Will Schools Close for Hot Weather in New York State?

With temperatures climbing into the mid-80s and humidity making it feel closer to 90 degrees, many parents across New York State are asking the same question: Is it too hot for schools to stay open?

As we head toward the unofficial start of summer with Memorial Day weekend just around the corner, the sudden warm-up has a lot of people wondering whether classrooms are becoming uncomfortable for students and staff.

Temperatures Surge Across New York State

Just a few days ago, many parts of New York State were dealing with temperatures near freezing. Now, it feels like summer has arrived in full force. Combined with rising humidity, some areas are experiencing heat index values approaching 90 degrees.

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For many New Yorkers, the abrupt shift from chilly spring weather to summer-like heat has been a shock.

When Is It Too Hot for Schools in New York State?

Although it may feel sweltering outside, school buildings may not have had enough time to heat up significantly.

Because this stretch of hot weather is relatively brief, classrooms may remain cooler than expected, especially in buildings with good ventilation or air conditioning.

New York State has guidelines regarding excessive heat in schools. If classroom temperatures reach unsafe levels, schools are required to take steps to protect students and staff. That can include relocating students to cooler areas, modifying activities, or implementing other cooling measures.

Schools Likely Won’t Need to Close

At this point, it does not appear that schools will be forced to take any drastic action.

"A new law sets 88 degrees as the maximum temperature for occupancy of all spaces used by students in public school buildings, beginning in September 2025. Gov. Kathy Hochul approved the measure in mid-December"

The good news is that this hot spell is expected to be short-lived. By the end of the week, temperatures are forecast to return to more typical levels for this time of year, just in time for the Memorial Day holiday weekend.

The Bigger Problem: Too Much Rain

While the warm weather may be uncomfortable, many homeowners say the biggest issue this spring has been the rain.

If you have tried to mow your lawn recently, you know exactly what that means.

Backyards and front lawns across Western New York have remained soggy for weeks, making it difficult to keep up with yard work. The region has seen an unusually wet start to 2026, and many residents are hoping for a stretch of dry weather.

Memorial Day Weekend Weather Outlook

As New Yorkers look forward to a long holiday weekend, those who dislike the heat may need to endure just a couple more warm days.

In the meantime, make sure your air conditioner is ready, your pets have plenty of fresh water, and your children stay hydrated and cool if they are playing outdoors.

As is often the case with weather in New York State, conditions can change quickly. This burst of summer-like heat is not expected to last long, and another shift in the forecast is likely just around the corner.