Rochester, New York, experiences a diverse range of weather conditions throughout the year.
July is typically the hottest month, with an average high of 80°F and a low of 63°F.
In contrast, January stands as the coldest month, with temperatures fluctuating between an average high of 32°F and a low of 20°F.
These fluctuations showcase the city’s distinct seasonal changes.
The city also endures a cold season lasting about 3.3 months, from early December to mid-March, where daily highs remain below 41°F.
For those who love sunshine, June is the brightest month in Rochester, offering an average of 6.7 kWh of daily sunlight.
On the other hand, December is the darkest month, averaging 1.6 kWh of daily incident energy.
Moreover, Rochester’s weather is characterized by its monthly variances in temperature, precipitation, and daylight.
Such diverse climatic conditions make Rochester a city of interest for anyone intrigued by varying weather patterns or planning a visit at different times of the year.
Whether you enjoy snowy winters or sunny summers, Rochester has something to offer year-round.
Average Temperature in Rochester, New York
Rochester, New York experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.
The hottest month is July, with an average high of 80°F and a low of 63°F.
In contrast, the coldest month is January, where the average high is 32°F and the low drops to 20°F.
In February, temperatures slightly increase with averages from 24°F to 34°F.
By March, the weather starts to warm up a bit, reaching average highs of 44°F and lows around 30°F.
April brings more moderate temperatures, with highs around 57°F and lows of 39°F.
June marks the beginning of summer with average highs of 74°F and lows of 55°F.
This trend continues into August, with temperatures averaging between 62°F and 78°F.
September sees a gradual decline in temperatures, ranging from 54°F to 71°F.
By October, fall is in full swing, with highs around 59°F and lows around 42°F.
November temperatures average between 36°F and 48°F.
December brings back the winter chill, with highs around 38°F and lows near 26°F.
Rochester’s climate shows significant variations, making each season unique.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 32 | 20 |
| February | 34 | 24 |
| March | 44 | 30 |
| April | 57 | 39 |
| June | 74 | 55 |
| July | 80 | 63 |
| August | 78 | 62 |
| September | 71 | 54 |
| October | 59 | 42 |
| November | 48 | 36 |
| December | 38 | 26 |
For more information on temperature trends, visit Temperature – ChaseDay.com.
Average Precipitation in Rochester, New York
Rochester experiences a varied climate with significant rainfall and snowfall throughout the year. Understanding these patterns can help residents and visitors prepare for the changing weather conditions.
Average Rainfall in Rochester, New York
Rainfall in Rochester is spread throughout the year.
The wettest months are from late spring to early fall. June often sees the most rain, with about 3.6 inches of precipitation.
April and May also see substantial rainfall, each receiving around 3 inches on average.
The drier months are typically winter months like January and February. These months receive around 2 inches of rain each.
The annual average rainfall is about 34 inches.
Rain in Rochester varies widely from month to month. The chance of rain can be higher in certain seasons, impacting daily life and activities.
Average Snow in Rochester, New York
Rochester experiences substantial snowfall, especially during the winter months. The snow season lasts from late November to early April.
The heaviest snow typically falls in January, with an average of 22 inches of snow.
December and February also see significant snowfall, each averaging around 20 inches.
The total annual snowfall is about 100 inches.
This significant snowfall often leads to snow-covered streets and can impact travel and daily life.
Snow and ice are common, and learning how to navigate winter conditions can be essential. Those interested in snow details can read more about snow and ice in similar climates.
Average Sun in Rochester, New York
Rochester experiences varying levels of sunlight throughout the year, with more sunny days during summer months and fewer during winter. This impacts how people plan outdoor activities.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy in Rochester, New York
The average daily shortwave solar energy in Rochester is a measure of how much sunlight reaches the ground each day.
In July, the peak summer month, Rochester receives the most solar energy, with an average of around 5.8 kWh per square meter.
Conversely, in December, the heart of winter, this drops to around 1.5 kWh per square meter.
This fluctuation affects the amount of daylight residents experience, resulting in longer, sunnier days in summer and shorter, cloudier days in winter.
Average Humidity in Rochester, New York
Rochester experiences varying levels of humidity throughout the year. The city is known for its humid continental climate, which means the weather can change significantly from season to season.
Monthly Humidity Averages
- January: 75%
- February: 73%
- March: 70%
- April: 68%
- May: 69%
- June: 71%
- July: 72%
- August: 75%
- September: 78%
- October: 79%
- November: 77%
- December: 76%
The winter months, particularly December and January, tend to have higher humidity levels due to colder temperatures.
Seasonal Humidity
- Winter: High humidity, especially in December (76%) and January (75%).
- Spring: Humidity starts to drop, with April averaging 68%.
- Summer: Milder humidity, with August reaching up to 75%.
- Fall: Increasing humidity again, with October peaking at 79%.
Daily Humidity
Daily humidity levels can also vary, often highest in the early morning and lowest in the afternoon.
Overall, Rochester’s humidity can make summer days feel warmer and winter days colder. Knowing these humidity trends can help residents and visitors plan their activities accordingly.
Average Wind in Rochester, New York
Rochester experiences varying wind speeds throughout the year. The average wind speed is around 10 mph, but it can fluctuate depending on the season and weather patterns.
In the winter months, wind speeds often increase, making the cold temperatures feel even colder. During these months, wind speeds can sometimes exceed 15 mph.
Summer tends to have milder wind conditions. Wind speeds typically range between 6 to 10 mph. This makes for comfortable outdoor activities without the harshness of strong winds.
The windiest month in Rochester is usually March. During March, average wind speeds can reach up to 12 mph. This is due to the seasonal transition from winter to spring.
Monthly Average Wind Speeds
| Month | Average Wind Speed (mph) |
|---|---|
| January | 11 |
| February | 11 |
| March | 12 |
| April | 10 |
| May | 9 |
| June | 8 |
| July | 7 |
| August | 7 |
| September | 8 |
| October | 9 |
| November | 10 |
| December | 11 |
The Greater Rochester International Airport, located approximately four miles from downtown, is often used for recording wind statistics. This location provides accurate and consistent data for understanding wind patterns in the city.
In some parts of the city, the terrain can influence wind behavior. Areas near Lake Ontario might experience slightly higher wind speeds, especially during windy days.
Average Air Quality in Rochester, New York
Rochester, New York typically enjoys good air quality throughout the year. The Air Quality Index (AQI) often falls within the “Good” category, making it safe for most people to engage in outdoor activities.
The AQI is a measure used to communicate how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is forecasted to become. The index ranges from 0 to 500, with lower values representing better air quality.
Below is a summary of the key pollutants impacting Rochester’s air quality:
- PM2.5 (fine particulate matter): The AQI for PM2.5 is usually in the “Good” category. Check current PM2.5 levels.
- Ozone (O3): Levels often remain low, with AQI values typically in the “Good” range. Details can be found here.
- Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): This pollutant also stays within safe limits, with an AQI of 3, indicating very low levels.
For a detailed daily update on air quality in different neighborhoods of Rochester, visit the Rochester Air Quality Index.
Here is a list of specific locations and their recent AQI readings:
- Spirit Organic: 22
- Willowood Drive: 32
- Brighton Fire Station #2: 36
- Oliver Street: 36
- Short Hills Estate: 36
To ensure accurate information, these readings are updated in real-time and can help residents make informed decisions about outdoor activities.
For more on the localized AQI forecast, explore AccuWeather’s Rochester air quality.
Topography of Rochester, New York
Rochester, New York, is situated in Monroe County. Its geographical coordinates are approximately 43.1° N latitude and 77.6° W longitude.
The city’s elevation varies modestly, ranging from 423 feet to 505 feet above sea level.
The city is located along the southern shore of Lake Ontario, one of the five Great Lakes of North America. This proximity to the lake significantly influences Rochester’s climate and weather patterns throughout the year.
In terms of topography, Rochester features gently rolling terrain and a mix of urban and suburban landscapes.
The Genesee River runs north-south through the city and has historically been significant for the area’s development.
Downtown Rochester and many urban neighborhoods are situated on a plateau-like area overlooking the river gorge.
Natural features like Ellison Park and Highland Park add to the city’s diverse landscapes. These parks showcase the rolling hills and scenic views typical of the region.
Rochester’s infrastructure is well-adapted to its topography. The city’s roadways and bridges are designed to navigate the varied elevations and natural barriers presented by the river and parks.
The topographic diversity in Rochester offers residents and visitors numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. Hiking, cycling, and fishing are popular, utilizing the natural features and public parks spread across the city.
One notable geographic coordinate for Rochester can be found on a topographic map, highlighting its location within Monroe County.
Detailed elevation data, ranging from 42.99729 to 43.31729 degrees North latitude and 77.77521 to 77.45521 degrees West longitude, can also be explored through an interactive elevation map.
Extreme Weather Events that Occur in Rochester, New York
Rochester experiences a range of extreme weather events throughout the year.
Severe Thunderstorms:
Rochester often faces severe thunderstorms. These can bring heavy rain, lightning, and damaging winds.
Thunderstorms are especially common during the summer months. On August 5, 2024, a severe thunderstorm warning was issued for the Rochester region. Such storms can lead to power outages and property damage.
During winter, Rochester sees heavy snowfall and blizzards. Snow can accumulate quickly, making travel difficult. Blizzards bring high winds and reduced visibility.
The city’s proximity to Lake Ontario often results in significant lake-effect snow.
| Event | Average Conditions |
|---|---|
| Snowfall | Over 100 inches annually |
| Temperatures | Often below freezing (32°F) |
Summers can bring heat waves with temperatures soaring above 90°F. These heat waves are often accompanied by high humidity, making it feel even hotter.
In July 1936, Rochester recorded its highest temperature ever at 102°F according to Extreme Weather Watch.
Hurricanes and Tropical Storms:
Though less common, remnants of hurricanes or tropical storms can impact Rochester. These events bring heavy rain and strong winds.
For example, the area faced potential severe weather from Hurricane Beryl’s remnants.
Extreme Cold:
Winters are not only snowy but can also be extremely cold. Temperatures often drop well below freezing, sometimes reaching sub-zero levels. Residents need to prepare for such freezing conditions.
Best Time of the Year to Visit Rochester, New York
The best time to visit Rochester, New York, typically falls between late spring and early fall, specifically from May to September. This period offers pleasant weather and numerous outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
What is Rochester, New York Like in Spring
Spring in Rochester starts in March and continues through May. This season brings milder temperatures and the blooming of flowers and trees.
March begins cool, with highs around 45°F. April warms up to the mid-50s, while May can see temperatures climb to the mid-60s.
Spring is a great time to visit city parks and the Rochester Lilac Festival held in May, showcasing over 1,200 lilac bushes.
Rainfall is moderate, with April averaging around 3 inches. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and exploring the city’s museums without the summer crowds.
What is Rochester, New York Like in Summer
Summer in Rochester runs from June to August. The city experiences warm temperatures ideal for outdoor activities.
June temperatures range from 60°F to 75°F, rising to 80°F in July. August remains warm, with highs around 78°F.
Summers are perfect for visiting Lake Ontario beaches, the Rochester International Jazz Festival in June, and various farmers’ markets.
July is the hottest month, and the city sees moderate humidity.
Rainfall during summer is about 3-4 inches per month, mainly from occasional thunderstorms. Outdoor concerts, festivals, and sporting events are plentiful during these months.
What is Rochester, New York Like in Fall
Fall, from September to November, is a beautiful season in Rochester. The changing leaves create stunning landscapes with comfortable weather.
September’s temperatures range from 55°F to 70°F, dropping to the low 50s by October. November cools further to highs around 45°F.
This is the best time to visit for those who enjoy hiking, as the fall foliage offers picturesque views.
Rainfall in the fall is similar to the spring, averaging around 3 inches. Events like the Fringe Festival in September and local apple orchard visits in October make fall a charming time to experience Rochester.
What is Rochester, New York Like in Winter
Winter in Rochester spans from December to February.
Winters can be harsh, with cold temperatures and frequent snowfall.
December’s highs are around 35°F, dropping to the mid-20s in January and February.
Snow accumulation is significant, with January averaging around 20 inches. This makes winter sports, like skiing and snowboarding, popular activities.
Despite the cold, winter offers festive events such as the Rochester City Ballet’s Nutcracker performance and holiday markets.
Winter is also a good time to explore indoor attractions like the George Eastman Museum and local theaters.
For those prepared for the cold, Rochester can still be an enjoyable destination during the winter months.