This prediction comes as meteorologists have released one of their first early spring weather forecasts. Winter-Like Cold Will Persist in New York State, According to Spring ForecastAccuWeather Long-Range Expert Paul Pastelok says that winter-like cold will last well into spring across areas in the Northeast. Snow could also linger if cold weather persists though early spring, though heavier rain could impact the area as we enter later into the season. AccuWeather forecasters use weather phenomena like La Niña or El Niño to make their long-range predictions, which influence weather patterns for months to come. The Climate Prediction Center says that a La Niña usually pushes the jet stream further south during the winter months.