Severe Storms Pass South of Rochester

Early March thunderstorms bring record warmth, then a return to seasonal temperatures

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Severe thunderstorms moved through parts of New York's Southern Tier on Tuesday, but the Rochester area was spared the worst of the weather. The region saw record high temperatures, reaching 73 degrees at the Rochester Airport, before a cooldown is expected later in the week.

Why it matters

While severe storms in early March are uncommon in the Rochester area, the fluctuating temperatures and changing weather patterns are a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the region's spring climate. The forecast provides important information for residents to plan their activities and prepare for the changing conditions.

The details

The News10NBC First Alert meteorologists issued a yellow alert for the potential of severe storms, including lightning, gusty winds, and heavy rain. However, the strongest storms stayed mainly south of the Rochester area. Despite the storm threat, the region saw a record high temperature of 73 degrees at the Rochester Airport.

  • On Tuesday, March 7, 2026, severe thunderstorms moved through parts of New York's Southern Tier.
  • On Tuesday evening, the yellow alert was expected to be discontinued as the storms moved east.
  • At 2 AM on Sunday, March 10, 2026, clocks will be set forward one hour for daylight saving time.

The players

News10NBC

The local NBC television affiliate serving the Rochester, New York area.

Rochester Airport

The primary airport serving the Rochester metropolitan area, located just outside the city.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Some would say it is a little early in the season for severe thunderstorms, and they would be correct. Early March is not our typical time of the year for lightning, gusty winds, and downpours.”

— Glenn Johnson, News10NBC (whec.com)

What’s next

The News10NBC First Alert weather team will continue to monitor the forecast and provide updates on the changing weather conditions in the Rochester area.

The takeaway

The severe storms that passed to the south of Rochester serve as a reminder that spring weather in the region can be unpredictable, with sudden shifts in temperature and the potential for severe weather even in early March. Residents should stay tuned to local weather reports to plan accordingly.