Rochester (MN) Monthly Rainfall & Precipitation
This page shows both the average monthly rainfall and the number of rainy days in Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America. This average is based on long-term data collected between 1990 and 2020. Now, let's break down all the details for a clearer picture.
Generally, Rochester experiences moderate precipitation patterns, averaging 923 mm (36 in) yearly. However, this average masks significant seasonal variation, including a distinct dry season during certain months that are clearly visible in our monthly breakdown below.
Monthly Precipitation Levels
The average number of days each month with precipitation (> 0.2 mm (0.01 in))
The climate in Rochester shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect 137 mm (5.4 in) of precipitation during the wettest month June, distributed over 14 rainy days.
In contrast, January offers drier and sunnier days, with around 18 mm (0.7 in) of snowfall over 7 snowy days.
June, the wettest month, has a maximum daytime temperature of 25°C (77°F). During the driest month January you can expect a temperature of -5°C (23°F). For more detailed insights into the city's temperatures, visit our Rochester Temperature page.
Annual Rainfall in the United States of America: City Comparison
The map below shows the annual precipitation across the United States of America. You can also select the different months in case you are interested in a specific month.
heavy rainfall
high
moderate
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Rochester vs World: Rainfall Compared
Rochester's average annual precipitation is 923 mm (36 in). Let's compare this to some popular worldwide tourist destinations:
Boston, USA, experiences 1238 mm (49 in) of annual precipitation, including significant snowfall during the winter.
Osaka, Japan, experiences 1507 mm (59 in) of rainfall annually, spread across the year with wetter summers.
In Brisbane, Australia, the annual precipitation is 979 mm (39 in), making it wetter than Sydney.
Mumbai, India, experiences a tropical monsoon climate with 1860 mm (73 in) of annual rainfall, with the majority of precipitation happening during the monsoon season from June to September.
Precipitation amounts are measured using specific gauges installed at weather stations, collecting both rain and snow and any other type of precipitation. Rainfall is measured directly in millimeters, while that from snow and ice is obtained by melting it. Automated systems often incorporate heaters to make this easier.
Information from these stations is transmitted via Wi-Fi, satellite, GPS, or telephone connections to central monitoring networks. This information is immediately updated and integrated into weather models and forecasts.
Precipitation has a very strong role in determining the local climate and ecosystem:
- Changing Rainfall Patterns: Global warming causes drastic changes in the patterns of rainfall. Some areas have been experiencing increased frequency and intensity of rainfall, while other areas experience longer dry spells or even droughts.
- Local Impacts: Many regions are experiencing heavier rainfall in the winter months and drier, hotter summers. This affects agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems.
- The U.S. has a significant number of thunderstorms every year, with over 14.6 million taking place across the world annually.
- Approximately 70% of lightning bolts strike land rather than oceans.
- A storm named John was the longest-lasting Pacific tropical storm, continuing for 31 days. As it crossed the dateline twice, it changed status from a hurricane to a typhoon and back to a hurricane.
For more detailed information about Rochester (MN)'s weather, including sunshine hours, humidity levels, and temperature data, visit our Rochester (MN) Climate page.
