Cold Snap Continues in Rochester This Weekend

Lake effect snow, frigid temps, and limited sunshine ahead

Jan. 31, 2026 at 7:55am

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The Rochester region will continue to experience an arctic airmass over the next several days, with temperatures struggling to reach the mid-teens and wind chills just above zero. Lake effect snow is expected today, with fluffy accumulations of up to an inch or two along the lakeshore. Skies are expected to clear tomorrow, providing some sunshine, but another blast of cold air is on the way for next weekend.

Why it matters

The prolonged cold spell is disrupting daily life for Rochester residents, with school delays, hazardous driving conditions, and increased heating costs. The lake effect snow also poses risks for travelers and can lead to power outages in some areas.

The details

Today, Rochester will see highs only reaching the mid-teens, with wind chills just above zero. Lake effect snow is expected, with fluffy accumulations of up to an inch or two along the lakeshore. The lake snow should taper off this afternoon, but it will remain mostly cloudy. Tomorrow, there is a chance of more lake flakes in the morning, but skies are expected to clear in the afternoon, providing some much-needed sunshine. Temperatures will remain below freezing all weekend, with the warmest day being Tuesday, when highs are expected to reach the upper 20s. No major storms are in the forecast, but another arctic airmass is expected to move in next weekend, continuing the cold spell.

  • Today, highs will reach the mid-teens with wind chills just above zero.
  • Lake effect snow is expected today, with fluffy accumulations of up to an inch or two along the lakeshore.
  • Tomorrow, there is a chance of more lake flakes in the morning, but skies are expected to clear in the afternoon.
  • Tuesday will be the warmest day of the week, with highs reaching the upper 20s.
  • Another arctic airmass is expected to move in next weekend, continuing the cold spell.

The players

Nate Morris

A meteorologist and news reporter for News10NBC in Rochester, New York.

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What they’re saying

“Stay tuned to News10 NBC for updates.”

— Nate Morris, Meteorologist

What’s next

Residents should continue to monitor the weather forecast and prepare for the continued cold temperatures and potential for lake effect snow over the next several days.

The takeaway

The prolonged cold spell in Rochester is a stark reminder of the challenges that winter weather can bring, and the importance of being prepared for harsh conditions. While the cold may be disruptive, the community will need to come together to support one another and stay safe during this difficult stretch.