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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 sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
Amazing High Falls in Rochester, New York, USA
The climate of Rochester
Rochester, resting in New York, is classified under a Humid continental climate, according to the Köppen climate system with a Dfb categorization. As it is a prominent part of a no dry season region with warm summers, variation throughout the year is a defining trait. Its geographical location gives birth to diverse microclimates with significant differences in temperature, precipitation and other meteorological parameters.
Average high temperatures fluctuate from a chilly 29.3°F (-1.5°C) in January to a warm 77.9°F (25.5°C) in July. Similarly, average lows also vary extensively from a cool 19.8°F (-6.8°C) in January to a rather comfortable 63°F (17.2°C) in July. Relative humidity hovers around the 77-84% mark throughout the year, reflecting a generally humid climate. A notable amount of rainfall is apparent all months, ranging from 1.85" (47mm) in September to a high of 2.99" (76mm) in May.
Unique weather patterns are evident as well; Rochester sees snowfall from the initial winter month of December till April, with February witnessing the highest average snowfall of 7.01" (178mm). An amalgamation of sunlight and larger daylight hours can be expected during the summer months, with July showcasing the longest daylight hours of 15 hours and highest average sunshine hours of 10.6. In terms of sea temperatures, averages undergo a shift from 38°F (3.3°C) in January to a warm 73°F (22.8°C) in August.
Average high temperatures fluctuate from a chilly 29.3°F (-1.5°C) in January to a warm 77.9°F (25.5°C) in July. Similarly, average lows also vary extensively from a cool 19.8°F (-6.8°C) in January to a rather comfortable 63°F (17.2°C) in July. Relative humidity hovers around the 77-84% mark throughout the year, reflecting a generally humid climate. A notable amount of rainfall is apparent all months, ranging from 1.85" (47mm) in September to a high of 2.99" (76mm) in May.
Unique weather patterns are evident as well; Rochester sees snowfall from the initial winter month of December till April, with February witnessing the highest average snowfall of 7.01" (178mm). An amalgamation of sunlight and larger daylight hours can be expected during the summer months, with July showcasing the longest daylight hours of 15 hours and highest average sunshine hours of 10.6. In terms of sea temperatures, averages undergo a shift from 38°F (3.3°C) in January to a warm 73°F (22.8°C) in August.
The best time to visit Rochester
Taking into account a multitude of factors, the months from June to August offer the most favorable conditions to visit Rochester. With average temperatures increasing from 71.4°F (21.9°C) to 77.9°F (25.5°C), rainfall witnessing a moderate decline from 2.56" (65mm) to 2.72" (69mm), and an average of 15 hours of daylight, these months offer visitors enough time to explore the city and engage in outdoor activities.
The UV index during these months is at the medium range - from 5 in June, increasing up to 6 in July, and again falling to 5 in August. This factor, along with prolonged sunshine hours - 9.7 hours in June increasing to 10.6 hours in July and falling to 10.4 hours in August - gives visitors the perfect catalyst to soak in the city’s culture during the summer months.
The UV index during these months is at the medium range - from 5 in June, increasing up to 6 in July, and again falling to 5 in August. This factor, along with prolonged sunshine hours - 9.7 hours in June increasing to 10.6 hours in July and falling to 10.4 hours in August - gives visitors the perfect catalyst to soak in the city’s culture during the summer months.
The worst time to visit Rochester
The months of January and February are traditionally challenging for tourists due to harsh winter conditions. Average high temperatures during these months are particularly low - 29.3°F (-1.5°C) in January and 31.5°F (-0.3°C) in February. The snowfall also increases during these months, with 5.79" (147mm) in January followed by the year’s peak in February at 7.01" (178mm).
The sea temperature also dips during these months, reaching 38°F (3.3°C) in January and falling even further to 36.9°F (2.7°C) in February. These factors coupled with low daylight hours from 9.4 hours in January to 10.5 hours in February and reduced visibility of 5 miles makes outdoor activities and sightseeing rather difficult.
The sea temperature also dips during these months, reaching 38°F (3.3°C) in January and falling even further to 36.9°F (2.7°C) in February. These factors coupled with low daylight hours from 9.4 hours in January to 10.5 hours in February and reduced visibility of 5 miles makes outdoor activities and sightseeing rather difficult.
Spring weather in Rochester
Rochester’s spring, from March to May, is characterized by a swift climb in temperature. Average highs increase from 39.7°F (4.3°C) to 63.9°F (17.7°C) and average lows from 28°F (-2.2°C) to 48°F (8.9°C). Rainfall also sees a substantial increase from 2.05" (52mm) in March to 2.99" (76mm) in May.
Snowfall starts tapering off from 2.8" (71mm) in March, falling to 1.65" (42mm) in April and then almost disappearing to 0.35" (9mm) in May. Daylight hours increase from 12 hours in March to 14.7 hours in May, providing a longer window for outdoor activities.
Snowfall starts tapering off from 2.8" (71mm) in March, falling to 1.65" (42mm) in April and then almost disappearing to 0.35" (9mm) in May. Daylight hours increase from 12 hours in March to 14.7 hours in May, providing a longer window for outdoor activities.
Summer weather in Rochester
Summers in Rochester, spanning June to August, are marked by warmth and extended sunshine. The average temperature highs rise from 71.4°F (21.9°C) in June, peaking at 77.9°F (25.5°C) in July, and then slightly fall to 76.6°F (24.8°C) in August. Rainfall sees a slight rise from 2.56" (65mm) in June to 2.83" (72mm) in August.
The sea temperature sees a significant increase falling from 59.4°F (15.2°C) in June to a comfortable 73°F (22.8°C) in August. Prolonged daylight hours, from 15.3 hours in June to 15 hours in July and then falling to 13.9 hours in August, coupled with increased sunshine hours provide perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
The sea temperature sees a significant increase falling from 59.4°F (15.2°C) in June to a comfortable 73°F (22.8°C) in August. Prolonged daylight hours, from 15.3 hours in June to 15 hours in July and then falling to 13.9 hours in August, coupled with increased sunshine hours provide perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
Autumn weather in Rochester
Autumn in Rochester runs from September to November and is characterized by a fall in temperatures, Daylight hours and sea temperature. The average temperature falls from 71.1°F (21.7°C) in September to 45.9°F (7.7°C) in November. The sea temperature drops from 68.6°F (20.3°C) in September to 48.7°F (9.3°C) in November.
Rainfall sees an increase from 1.85" (47mm) in September to 2.24" (57mm) in November. Daylight hours gradually decrease from 12.5 hours in September to 9.7 hours in November.
Rainfall sees an increase from 1.85" (47mm) in September to 2.24" (57mm) in November. Daylight hours gradually decrease from 12.5 hours in September to 9.7 hours in November.
Winter weather in Rochester
Winter in Rochester, from December to February, sees a steep decrease in temperatures, daylight hours, and sea temperature, while snowfall sees a significant increase. Average high temperatures fall from 36°F (2.2°C) in December to a low 29.3°F (-1.5°C) in January before rising slightly to 31.5°F (-0.3°C) in February. Average low temperature also decrease from 27.5°F (-2.5°C) in December to 19.8°F (-6.8°C) in January before increasing slightly to 21.2°F (-6°C) in February.
Snowfall sees an increase from 5.31" (135mm) in December to a peak of 7.01" (178mm) in February. Sea temperature sees a steady decline from 41.7°F (5.4°C) in December to 36.9°F (2.7°C) in February. Daylight hours are relatively low in these months from 9 hours in December to 9.4 hours in February, reducing the window for outdoor activities.
Snowfall sees an increase from 5.31" (135mm) in December to a peak of 7.01" (178mm) in February. Sea temperature sees a steady decline from 41.7°F (5.4°C) in December to 36.9°F (2.7°C) in February. Daylight hours are relatively low in these months from 9 hours in December to 9.4 hours in February, reducing the window for outdoor activities.
Weather in January
In Rochester, January ushers in the winter season, characterized by significant snowfall, with an average daily peak wind speed of 18 MPH. The days are short as they capture less daylight, while the nights extend longer. This month sees overcast skies majority of the time, reducing the opportunities for the sun to pierce through. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Moving from January to February, the winter weather continues in Rochester. Although temperatures rise slightly, the average low remains firmly below freezing at 21.2°F (-6°C). Much like January, February sees consistent cloud cover, contributing to the cold winter feeling. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March signals the onset of milder weather conditions in Rochester, with an increase in daytime temperatures, up to a maximum of 39.7°F (4.3°C). However, the residents of the city don't pack away their winter gear yet; snowfall remains a possibility. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April in Rochester brings a breath of fresh spring air, offering a respite from the long, cold winter months. The increase in temperature reflects the onset of spring. At the same time, rainfall intensifies and snowfall decreases, with very minimal chances of a snow-covered day. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May's weather in Rochester turns warmer, reminiscent of the approaching summer season. Weather conditions steer clear of snowfall entirely, with the temperature ranges broadening. Outdoor activities become more feasible with extended sunshine hours. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June's arrival in Rochester heralds the beginning of summer, with the warmest sea temperature so far at 59.4°F (15.2°C). The city basks in the long daylight hours, promising abundant sunshine. While the mercury rises, relative humidity remains at a comfortable level, ensuring a pleasant summer. Weather in June »
Weather in July
As the heart of summer, July is the warmest month in Rochester with a high average temperature of 77.9°F (25.5°C). The city enjoys the most prolonged daylight hours and the maximum sea temperature. Coupled with the warm temperatures, the extended daylight provides the perfect setting for long, sun-drenched days. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August in Rochester carries forward the warmth from July, with near similar temperature highs. Amidst the warm summer days, the city also experiences a peak in relative humidity. Frequent summer showers intersperse the sun-lit days, with the total rainfall amount peaking for the year. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September in Rochester brings about a change in weather as it transitions from summer to fall. One of the standout climatic features of the month is no snowfall. The pleasant autumn sun is less intense and shines a little less each day, hinting at the approaching winter. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October showcases Rochester in all its fall glory, with temperatures taking a significant dip from 71.1°F (21.7°C) to 58.5°F (14.7°C). The reduced daylight hours and increased rainfall highlight the seasonal changes. Cloud coverage starts to increase after the sunny summer days. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November in Rochester signifies the start of the cold season, with notable decreases in temperature. November is marked by the first snowfall since May, breaking the long snow-free spell. The daylight hours shrink further, leading to longer nights. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Rochester is abundant in winter cheer, with an average maximum snowfall of 5.31" (135mm). Cloud coverage is at its peak, and daylight hours are at their shortest. A significant drop in sea temperature confirms the full swing of winter. Weather in December »
Updated: Jun 9, 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 are the coldest months?
The coldest time of the year is January, with temperatures averaging a high of 29.3°F (-1.5°C) and a low of 19.8°F (-6.8°C).
What is the most humid month?
The months with the highest humidity are January and February, with an average relative humidity of 84%.
How much does it rain?
Throughout the year, there are 172.4 rainfall days, and 29.45" (748mm) of precipitation is accumulated.
When does it snow?
January through May, October through December are months with snowfall.
How much does it snow?
Throughout the year, in Rochester, there are 70.9 snowfall days, and 27.44" (697mm) of snow is accumulated.
What are the months with the least sunshine?
The months with the least sunshine are January and February, with an average of 2.7h of sunshine.
What are the months with the lowest UV index?
January and December, with an average maximum UV index of 1, are months with the lowest UV index.
When does it snow the most?
The month with the most snowfall is February, when snow falls for 15.6 days and typically aggregates up to 7.01" (178mm) of snow.
What is the month with the coldest ocean?
The month with the coldest seawater is March, with an average ocean temperature of 35.8°F (2.1°C).
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 rainiest month in Rochester?
The month with the most rainfall is May, when the rain falls for 16.8 days and typically aggregates up to 2.99" (76mm) of precipitation.
When it does not snow?
June through September are months without snowfall.
When are the longest days?
With an average of 15h and 18min of daylight, June has the longest days of the year.
What part of the year is the hottest?
July, with an average high of 77.9°F (25.5°C) and a low of 63°F (17.2°C), signifies the warmest month of the year.
What month has the most sunshine in Rochester?
The month with the most sunshine is July, with an average of 10.6h of sunshine.
What is the month with the highest UV index?
July is the month with the highest UV index, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
What is the least humid month?
The months with the lowest humidity are August and September, with an average relative humidity of 76%.
When is the ocean warmest?
August is the month with the warmest seawater, with an average ocean temperature of 73°F (22.8°C).
What is the driest month?
September is the month with the least rainfall. Rain falls for 13.9 days and accumulates 1.85" (47mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days?
With an average of 9h and 6min of daylight, December has the shortest days of the year.
Average temperature
Rochester, NY
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is July (77.9°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is January (29.3°F).
The month with the highest average low temperature is July (63°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is January (19.8°F).
Average pressure
Rochester, NY
- Average pressure in January:
30.05"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.03"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.07"Hg - Average pressure in April:
29.97"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.92"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.95"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:
30.09"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.06"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is November (30.09"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is June (29.92"Hg).
Average wind speed
Rochester, NY
- Average wind speed in January:
11.6mph - Average wind speed in February:
11.5mph - Average wind speed in March:
10.4mph - Average wind speed in April:
10.3mph - Average wind speed in May:
8mph - Average wind speed in June:
7.4mph
- Average wind speed in July:
7mph - Average wind speed in August:
7.3mph - Average wind speed in September:
7.6mph - Average wind speed in October:
9.4mph - Average wind speed in November:
10.2mph - Average wind speed in December:
10.7mph
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is January (11.6mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is July (7mph).
Average humidity
Rochester, NY
The months with the highest relative humidity are January and February (84%).
The months with the lowest relative humidity are August and September (76%).
Average rainfall
Rochester, NY
- Average rainfall in January:
1.97" - Average rainfall in February:
2.17" - Average rainfall in March:
2.05" - Average rainfall in April:
2.76" - Average rainfall in May:
2.99" - Average rainfall in June:
2.56"
- Average rainfall in July:
2.72" - Average rainfall in August:
2.83" - Average rainfall in September:
1.85" - Average rainfall in October:
2.83" - Average rainfall in November:
2.24" - Average rainfall in December:
2.48"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is May (2.99").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is September (1.85").
Average rainfall days
Rochester, NY
- Average rainfall days in January:
9.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
7.8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
12.2 days - Average rainfall days in April:
16.5 days - Average rainfall days in May:
16.8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
16.3 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
18.5 days - Average rainfall days in August:
18.7 days - Average rainfall days in September:
13.9 days - Average rainfall days in October:
17.8 days - Average rainfall days in November:
12.6 days - Average rainfall days in December:
11.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is August (18.7 days).
The month with the least rainy days is February (7.8 days).
Average snowfall
Rochester, NY
- Average snowfall in January:
5.79" - Average snowfall in February:
7.01" - Average snowfall in March:
2.8" - Average snowfall in April:
1.65" - Average snowfall in May:
0.35" - Average snowfall in June:
0"
The month with the highest snowfall is February (7.01").
The months with the least snowfall are June, July, August and September (0").
Average snowfall days
Rochester, NY
- Average snowfall days in January:
17.6 days - Average snowfall days in February:
15.6 days - Average snowfall days in March:
11.4 days - Average snowfall days in April:
3.8 days - Average snowfall days in May:
0.4 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:
0.9 days - Average snowfall days in November:
7 days - Average snowfall days in December:
14.2 days
The month with the highest number of snowfall days is January (17.6 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are June, July, August and September (0 days).
Average sea temperature
Rochester, NY
The best month for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) is August (73°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is March (35.8°F).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Rochester, NY
- 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 1min
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 6min).
- Average sunshine in January:
2h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
2h and 4min - Average sunshine in March:
5h and 1min - Average sunshine in April:
7h and 4min - Average sunshine in May:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 4min
- Average sunshine in July:
10h and 4min - Average sunshine in August:
10h and 2min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
4h and 5min - Average sunshine in November:
4h and 3min - Average sunshine in December:
3h and 1min
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 10h and 36min).
The months with the least sunshine are January and February (Average sunshine: 2h and 42min).
Average sunshine days
Rochester, NY
- Average sunshine days in January:
7.2 days - Average sunshine days in February:
6.7 days - Average sunshine days in March:
9.6 days - Average sunshine days in April:
10.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
12.6 days - Average sunshine days in June:
11.4 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
10.4 days - Average sunshine days in August:
10.1 days - Average sunshine days in September:
13.9 days - Average sunshine days in October:
10.3 days - Average sunshine days in November:
11.5 days - Average sunshine days in December:
8.4 days
The month with the most sunshine days is September (13.9 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is February (6.7 days).
Average UV index
Rochester, NY
The month with the highest UV index is July (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are January and December (UV index 1).
Average cloud cover
Rochester, NY
The month with the most cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 74).
The month with the least cloud cover is August (Cloud cover 28).
Average visibility
Rochester, NY
The months with the highest visibility are March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January and February (5mi).
Rochester, New York, USA
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