Energy from the Sun warms the surface in proportion to that which is absorbed.
Clouds reflect much of this energy, at wavelengths between UV and 10 cm at least, dependent on droplet size, temperature, thickness, nature of condensation nuclei and other factors. A proportion, therefore, does not reach the surface.
An example of this effect is to notice the temperature drop when bright sunlight is obscured by a cloud passing overhead.
During the day, clouds can reduce the rate at which the surface heats. At night, clouds reduce the rate at which the surface cools, by exactly the same mechanism.
If meteorological conditions lead to a diminution in cloud over a period, it will no doubt be perceived as warming, due to greater energy from the Sun being absorbed by the surface.
It is no more or less than the effect of stepping into direct sunlight, after being in the shade. Conversely, you will be aware that nights become colder, if clouds reduce.
Unfortunately, none of this helps at all with peering into the future. If the lithosphere, aquasphere, and atmosphere behave chaotically in the mathematical sense, you will be able to count yourself a seer if you can forecast any more effectively than the average 12 year old Chinese student.
Live well and prosper,
Mike Flynn.