Rochester, New York has a continental climate with distinct four seasons, each exhibiting characteristic weather patterns.

Below is information on average monthly temperatures, precipitation, and natural disasters.

Monthly Average Temperature and Precipitation

  • January: Average high temperature 31°F (-0.6°C), average low temperature 18°F (-7.8°C), average precipitation 2.3 inches (58.4mm)
  • February: Average high temperature 34°F (1°C), average low temperature 19°F (-7.2°C), average precipitation 2.0 inches (50.8mm)
  • March: Average high temperature 44°F (6.7°C), average low temperature 27°F (-2.8°C), average precipitation 2.7 inches (68.6mm)
  • April: Average high temperature 57°F (13.9°C), average low temperature 37°F (2.8°C), average precipitation 2.8 inches (71.1mm)
  • May: Average high temperature 69°F (20.6°C), average low temperature 47°F (8.3°C), average precipitation 3.1 inches (78.7mm)
  • June: Average high temperature 77°F (25°C), average low temperature 57°F (13.9°C), average precipitation 3.4 inches (86.4mm)
  • July: Average high temperature 82°F (27.8°C), average low temperature 62°F (16.7°C), average precipitation 3.1 inches (78.7mm)
  • August: Average high temperature 80°F (26.7°C), average low temperature 61°F (16.1°C), average precipitation 3.3 inches (83.8mm)
  • September: Average high temperature 73°F (22.8°C), average low temperature 53°F (11.7°C), average precipitation 3.4 inches (86.4mm)
  • October: Average high temperature 61°F (16.1°C), average low temperature 42°F (5.6°C), average precipitation 2.8 inches (71.1mm)
  • November: Average high temperature 48°F (8.9°C), average low temperature 33°F (0.6°C), average precipitation 2.9 inches (73.7mm)
  • December: Average high temperature 36°F (2.2°C), average low temperature 23°F (-5°C), average precipitation 2.7 inches (68.6mm)

Rochester has a fairly even distribution of precipitation throughout the year, with significant snowfall during winter due to lake effect.

Natural Disaster Information

  1. Heavy Snow and Cold Waves: Rochester experiences lake-effect snow due to the influence of Lake Ontario, which can lead to heavy snowfall and cold waves. This can cause traffic disruptions and impact daily life.

  2. Flooding: Spring snowmelt and heavy rainfall can lead to river flooding or localized flooding.

  3. Thunderstorms and Strong Winds: Thunderstorms and strong winds can occur in summer, occasionally causing power supply issues.

Overall, Rochester is considered to have a relatively low risk of natural disasters within New York State, but it is important to prepare for seasonal weather changes.