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Contents
- The climate of Rochester
- The best time to visit Rochester
- The worst time to visit Rochester
- Spring weather in Rochester
- Summer weather in Rochester
- Autumn weather in Rochester
- Winter weather in Rochester
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average snowfall
- Average snowfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The climate of Rochester
Designated under the Köppen classification as a Dfb climate, Rochester, New Hampshire quintessentially experiences what one may refer to as a humid continental climate, with no dry season and a warm summer. Situated geographically in a temperate zone, the city's climate is a shifting spectacle of warmth and chill, rain, and snow.
Throughout the calendar year, climatological shifts become distinctive features of the Rochester weather narrative. From the chilly depths of winter to the resplendent warmth of summer, with temperatures moving from 17.4°F (-8.1°C) in the colder months to a substantial 78.3°F (25.7°C) in the warmest phase of summer. Variations in weather parameters constitute the rhythm of seasons. Relative humidity hovers around 80% throughout the year, giving the air an almost constant moistness. This moisture frequently manifests as rain, with monthly averages ranging from 1.5" (38mm) to as much as 3.11" (79mm). The city receives its least rainfall in September, while the abundance is typically observed in the autumn month of October and again in December.
Snowfall is a common spectacle and an integral element of Rochester's weather, with November through March being characterized by considerable snowing periods. January and February pack the heaviest punch with over 6" (152mm) of snowfall in average. Cloud coverage has a limited range of variation, playing between 32% to 50%. Peak cloudiness occurs during the spring months from March to May.
Throughout the calendar year, climatological shifts become distinctive features of the Rochester weather narrative. From the chilly depths of winter to the resplendent warmth of summer, with temperatures moving from 17.4°F (-8.1°C) in the colder months to a substantial 78.3°F (25.7°C) in the warmest phase of summer. Variations in weather parameters constitute the rhythm of seasons. Relative humidity hovers around 80% throughout the year, giving the air an almost constant moistness. This moisture frequently manifests as rain, with monthly averages ranging from 1.5" (38mm) to as much as 3.11" (79mm). The city receives its least rainfall in September, while the abundance is typically observed in the autumn month of October and again in December.
Snowfall is a common spectacle and an integral element of Rochester's weather, with November through March being characterized by considerable snowing periods. January and February pack the heaviest punch with over 6" (152mm) of snowfall in average. Cloud coverage has a limited range of variation, playing between 32% to 50%. Peak cloudiness occurs during the spring months from March to May.
The best time to visit Rochester
Given the variations in weather that Rochester sees throughout the year, selecting the best time to visit should be largely guided by the intended activities or the personal preference of a visitor. However, if warmth and an abundance of sunshine are high on the agenda, then the period from June to August may be ideal. During this time, temperatures hover between 63.1°F (17.3°C) and 78.3°F (25.7°C), and sunshine can be enjoyed for up to 10 hours a day.
The worst time to visit Rochester
Again, the worst time to visit Rochester is subjective, depending on an individual's tolerance for cold, snow and shorter daylight hours. However, generally, the period from December to February can be challenging for visitors unaccustomed to cold weather. Temperatures during this time can dip to as low as 17.4°F (-8.1°C) with snowfall averaging 6" (152mm) and the daylight duration stands at its shortest, at around 9 hours.
Spring weather in Rochester
Spring in Rochester greets locals and visitors alike from March through May, characterized by rising temperatures. These temperatures, transitioning from 39.7°F (4.3°C) in March to 63.1°F (17.3°C) in May, make the city's spring a season of moderate warmth. Rainfall during this period ranges between 2.48" (63mm) to 2.87" (73mm). An increase in daylight to up to 14.7 hours in May means the days are long and generally filled with natural light.
Summer weather in Rochester
The summer months - June, July, and August - in Rochester are warm, with temperatures varying slightly between 70.9°F (21.6°C) and 78.3°F (25.7°C). Interestingly, this is also the time when the city experiences the highest amount of sunlight hours, reaching up to a staggering 15 hours in July. Rainfall remains constant around the 2.52" (64mm) mark and is the time with the least cloud coverage.
Autumn weather in Rochester
Autumn in Rochester is a season of change, with temperatures hitting a maximum of 69.6°F (20.9°C) in September, then dropping to a significantly lower 46°F (7.8°C) by November. Days grow shorter, with daylight hours falling from 12.5 hours to around 9.7 hours. Despite autumn being characterized by the highest rainfall - 3.11" (79mm) in October - it is also a time when visitors can get the least cloud coverage, especially during September.
Winter weather in Rochester
The winter months spanning December to February are truly a season of chill and an abundance of snowfall. Rochester sees its lowest temperatures during this time - the mercury dips to 17.4°F (-8.1°C) in January and the snowfall peaks at 6.26" (159mm) during this time as well. Despite having the shortest daylight hours, winter offers around 5 hours of sunshine in this season. However, the one factor that remains almost constant is the relative humidity, never dipping below 76%.
Weather in January
Weather conditions in January in Rochester, New Hampshire, USA, present the height of winter, complete with snowfall and chilly temperatures. The cold is punctuated by an average highest temperature of a frosty 29.7°F (-1.3°C) and a lowest average temperature of 17.4°F (-8.1°C), while 6.26" (159mm) of snow typically graces the city. Weather in January »
Weather in February
In February, the cold snap in Rochester holds firm, but with a slight warming compared to January. The average highest temperature moves up to 32.5°F (0.3°C), acting as a small beacon of the coming springtime. The snowfall remains significant, but experiences a slight downturn from the 6.26" (159mm) of January. Weather in February »
Weather in March
As March rolls in, Rochester begins to shake off its winter chill, setting the stage for the arrival of spring. The city typically experiences an average highest temperature of 39.7°F (4.3°C) and a climb in the average lowest temperature to 26.1°F (-3.3°C). Weather in March »
Weather in April
The weather in April in Rochester, New Hampshire, USA, takes a definitive turn towards spring. The humidity starts to become more noticeable, and the city generally basks under 13.4 hours of daylight, more than any month thus far. Weather in April »
Weather in May
The merry month of May arrives in Rochester signaling that the warmth of summer is not far behind. Temperatures rise significantly, maxing out at an average of 63.1°F (17.3°C). The increased warmth, coupled with extended sunlight, encourage the bloom of flora across the city. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June brings warmth to Rochester as the city welcomes the height of summer. The weather is characterized by the highest daytime average temperature reaching 70.9°F (21.6°C), providing ideal conditions for outdoor activities. The number of daylight hours reaches its peak, serving as an indicator of the height of summer season. Weather in June »
Weather in July
With the onset of July, Rochester residents experience summer in full swing. The weather peaks with an average highest temperature of 78.3°F (25.7°C), the hottest Rochester gets in a year. The amount of rainfall reduces, and the number of daylight hours starts to decrease, subtly hinting at a change in season in the future. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August carries the warmth of July forward, though with a slight dip in the average highest temperature to 77.4°F (25.2°C). The transition from the peak summer season progresses slowly, with declining daylight hours and a drop in rainfall. Weather in August »
Weather in September
With the arrival of September, the scenery in Rochester starts to shift as summer begins to recede and the hints of autumn start appearing. A significant decrease in average highest temperature to 69.6°F (20.9°C) signifies the onset of fall. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October brings a definitive autumn feel to Rochester. The city encounters a change in weather with an average lowest temperature of 44.1°F (6.7°C), marking a significant drop from the temperatures seen in September. The deteriorating weather conditions are highlighted by an increased rainfall from September's 1.5" (38mm) to October's 3.11" (79mm). Weather in October »
Weather in November
As winter approaches, November sees temperatures in Rochester continue their downward trend from October. With an average low of 33.4°F (0.8°C), the chilling atmosphere can be felt in the air. November's weather is characterized by less rainfall yet more humidity than October, with the change noticeable in the fresh morning air. Weather in November »
Weather in December
Returning to winter, December is characterized by decreasing temperatures and increased snowfall in Rochester, New Hampshire, USA. The city encounters an average temperature high of 35.6°F (2°C) and an average low of 24.6°F (-4.1°C), while the snowfall rises noticeably to 6.69" (170mm) from November's 1.5" (38mm). Weather in December »
Updated: Aug 28, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
What is the coldest month?
In Rochester, January registers the lowest temperatures, averaging 29.7°F (-1.3°C) at the peak and 17.4°F (-8.1°C) at the lowest.
What is the most humid month?
January and February, with an average relative humidity of 82%, are most humid months.
How much does it rain in Rochester?
Throughout the year, there are 143.1 rainfall days, and 29.06" (738mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow?
Months with snowfall are January through May, October through December.
How much does it snow?
In Rochester, during the entire year, snow falls for 40 days and aggregates up to 27.8" (706mm) of snow.
What is the month with the lowest UV index?
The months with the lowest UV index are January through March, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
February has the least sunshine of the year, with an average of 4.7h of sunshine.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from EST to EDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from EDT to EST.
What is the least humid month in Rochester?
The least humid month is April, with an average relative humidity of 75%.
When it does not snow in Rochester?
In Rochester, snow does not fall in June through September.
When are the longest days?
With an average of 15h and 18min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
What time of the year is the hottest?
In Rochester, New Hampshire, the peak average temperatures are observed in July, with a high of 78.3°F (25.7°C) and a low of 60.3°F (15.7°C).
When is the highest UV index in Rochester?
July and August, with an average maximum UV index of 6, are months with the highest UV index.
What month has the most sunshine?
The month with the most sunshine is August, with an average of 10.4h of sunshine.
What is the driest month?
The month with the least rainfall is September, when the rain falls for 11.8 days and typically collects 1.5" (38mm) of precipitation.
What is the wettest month in Rochester?
The months with the most rainfall are October and December, with an average 3.11" (79mm) of precipitation.
What is the snowiest month?
The month with the most snowfall in Rochester is December, when snow falls for 7.2 days and typically aggregates up to 6.69" (170mm) of snow.
What is the month with the shortest days?
With an average of 9h and 0min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
Average temperature
Rochester, NH
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (78.3°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (29.7°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (60.3°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (17.4°F).
Average pressure
Rochester, NH
- Average pressure in January:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in February:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.96"Hg - Average pressure in May:
30"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.92"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.93"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in September:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in October:
30"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.06"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.03"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.06"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.92"Hg).
Average wind speed
Rochester, NH
- Average wind speed in January:
9.3mph - Average wind speed in February:
8.9mph - Average wind speed in March:
8.7mph - Average wind speed in April:
8mph - Average wind speed in May:
6.7mph - Average wind speed in June:
6.2mph
- Average wind speed in July:
5.5mph - Average wind speed in August:
5.5mph - Average wind speed in September:
6mph - Average wind speed in October:
7.3mph - Average wind speed in November:
7.7mph - Average wind speed in December:
8.5mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (9.3mph).
The calmest months (with the lowest average wind speed) are July and August (5.5mph).
Average humidity
Rochester, NH
The months with the highest relative humidity are January and February (82%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is April (75%).
Average rainfall
Rochester, NH
- Average rainfall in January:
2.28" - Average rainfall in February:
2.17" - Average rainfall in March:
2.48" - Average rainfall in April:
2.87" - Average rainfall in May:
2.13" - Average rainfall in June:
2.52"
- Average rainfall in July:
2.05" - Average rainfall in August:
2.01" - Average rainfall in September:
1.5" - Average rainfall in October:
3.11" - Average rainfall in November:
2.83" - Average rainfall in December:
3.11"
The wettest months (with the highest rainfall) are October and December (3.11").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (1.5").
Average rainfall days
Rochester, NH
- Average rainfall days in January:
7.6 days - Average rainfall days in February:
6.8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
11.7 days - Average rainfall days in April:
14.5 days - Average rainfall days in May:
15.1 days - Average rainfall days in June:
14.6 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
14.1 days - Average rainfall days in August:
13.7 days - Average rainfall days in September:
11.8 days - Average rainfall days in October:
12.9 days - Average rainfall days in November:
10.3 days - Average rainfall days in December:
10 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is May (15.1 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (6.8 days).
Average snowfall
Rochester, NH
- Average snowfall in January:
6.26" - Average snowfall in February:
6.26" - Average snowfall in March:
4.65" - Average snowfall in April:
2.09" - Average snowfall in May:
0.28" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is December (6.69").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Rochester, NH
- Average snowfall days in January:
10.4 days - Average snowfall days in February:
8.6 days - Average snowfall days in March:
8.8 days - Average snowfall days in April:
2.2 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.1 days - Average snowfall days in June:
0 days
- Average snowfall days in July:
0 days - Average snowfall days in August:
0 days - Average snowfall days in September:
0 days - Average snowfall days in October:
0.4 days - Average snowfall days in November:
2.3 days - Average snowfall days in December:
7.2 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (10.4 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Rochester, NH
- Average daylight in January:
9h and 2min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 3min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 2min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 4min - Average daylight in June:
15h and 2min
- Average daylight in July:
15h and 0min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 5min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 3min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 0min - Average daylight in November:
9h and 4min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 0min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 18min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 0min).
- Average sunshine in January:
5h and 0min - Average sunshine in February:
4h and 4min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 4min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 5min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 0min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 0min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 2min - Average sunshine in September:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
5h and 5min - Average sunshine in November:
5h and 2min - Average sunshine in December:
4h and 5min
The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 10h and 24min).
The month with the least sunshine is February (Average sunshine: 4h and 42min).
Average sunshine days
Rochester, NH
- Average sunshine days in January:
16.3 days - Average sunshine days in February:
14.7 days - Average sunshine days in March:
13.8 days - Average sunshine days in April:
13.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
14.3 days - Average sunshine days in June:
13.9 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
15 days - Average sunshine days in August:
15.3 days - Average sunshine days in September:
16.2 days - Average sunshine days in October:
15 days - Average sunshine days in November:
16.9 days - Average sunshine days in December:
16.1 days
The month with the most sunshine days is November (16.9 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is April (13.3 days).
Average UV index
Rochester, NH
The months with the highest UV index are July and August (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, March, November and December (UV index 2).
Average cloud cover
Rochester, NH
The month with the most cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 50).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 32).
Average visibility
Rochester, NH
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are May, June, July, August and September (5mi).
Rochester, New Hampshire, USA
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