Chilly rains continue in Rochester, but real snow is just over the hills
ROCHESTER, New York — As gray skies and persistent rain linger over Rochester, many are left wondering: Is it really still snow season somewhere nearby? The answer, surprisingly, is yes—just a few hours east.
While Western New York remains soggy but snow-free, our First Alert weather data confirms that if you venture just over 300 miles east into the higher elevations of Vermont and New Hampshire, snow is not only possible—it’s actively falling. The Green Mountains and the White Mountains, with their lofty ridges, are forecast to see accumulations of one to three inches, a reminder of just how dramatic elevation changes can reshape spring weather.
At the heart of this May snowfall stands Mount Washington, New Hampshire’s highest peak at 6,288 feet—nearly three times taller than Bristol Mountain. Snow in late May isn’t out of the ordinary here. Historically, the mountain logs snow on an average of 5.5 days in May, with total snowfall approaching 12 inches (about 30 cm). In one memorable event from May 2017, Mount Washington received a staggering 33 inches (84 cm) over just three days.
For those staying in Rochester and the surrounding Western New York region, there’s no snow in sight—just steady rain, gray skies, and perhaps a longing for brighter days. But for true snow lovers, a trip into New England’s high country might offer one last taste of winter before summer takes hold.
