Flagstaff experiences snowfall annually, with most accumulation occurring between January and February. On average, seven days per month see at least some accumulation.
Be mindful to wear layers when playing in the snow to protect yourself from cold injuries and identify early warning signs of hypothermia so you can seek assistance if necessary.
October
Winter Storm Igor brought with it a dusting of snowfall across northern Arizona and Flagstaff in particular, which came as something of a shock at this early point in the season. Although not unusual in Flagstaff proper, snow was welcomed by many residents living nearby while others in Flagstaff Valley enjoyed it while it lasted – though only briefly!
Flagstaff typically experiences an average annual snowfall of approximately 84 inches and in October averages one snowfall day per month; though this amounts to relatively minor amounts on individual days, its cumulative effect adds up throughout the month.
November is one of the coldest months in Flagstaff and offers great skiing and snowboarding conditions, not to mention more than 21 inches of snowfall! Skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts should make plans now to visit this northern town!
Flagstaff experiences an average temperature of 37 degrees Fahrenheit during November. Precipitation typically amounts to 7.9 inches during this month. As this time of year brings peak sun exposure risks, it is crucial that sunscreen and protective headgear such as hats be worn to limit UV radiation damage.
November
Flagstaff is well known for its beautiful winter snowfall, which forms an integral part of its identity and draws tourists who come for winter activities in this picturesque city.
Flagstaff experiences significant daily temperature reduction in November. Furthermore, snowfall days increase significantly compared to October. Flurries or intense storms of snowfall may fall and leave behind thick layers.
Cold air, moisture and lift are the three essential ingredients required for heavy snowfall; and on Wednesday they came together to produce widespread moderate to heavy snow across northern Arizona. The main snow makers included an invading Pacific moisture line from the Pacific that moved inland through Arizona low pressure system with accompanying strong low pressure system and cold front.
Flagstaff generally experiences snowfall six to seven times annually, while snowstorms of 10 inches or more usually happen only a couple times every year.
Flagstaff’s average dew point during November averaged 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Dew points measure the amount of water vapor present in the atmosphere – as such, higher dew points indicate greater humidification. Dew point changes tend to take effect more slowly than temperature fluctuation during a given day.
December
Flagstaff typically sees 7.36 inches of snowfall during December – making this month the snowiest month of the year in Flagstaff. Snowfall amounts vary significantly year to year with some years seeing massive accumulations while others seeing only light dustings; in fact, one record year saw over 100 inches fall within 24 hours!
As such, the city maintains extensive snow removal operations. Each winter, crews from city plow over 700 lane miles of pavement; 8 alley miles; 131 bike lanes; 270 miles of sidewalk; 42 miles of FUTS and 27,000 driveways using multiple passes by equipment to clear all snow away from these routes – and their primary goal remains keeping highways, arterials and primary streets open at all times.
Flagstaff typically experiences temperatures well below freezing during the winter due to its higher altitude; temperatures here tend to be considerably colder than in Phoenix.
Winter in Flagstaff typically begins around late November and lasts through early March, making for a busy time in the city with locals and visitors flocking to its ski resorts and other activities. Snow-covered paths make winter hiking and camping trips even more appealing!
January
January is often marked by heavier snowfall, leading to road closures and canceling of classes at Northern Arizona University as a result. To address the inclement weather, Flagstaff City has implemented numerous snow operations policies designed to make sure streets are cleared as soon as possible.
Flagstaff experiences heavy snowfall throughout the year. On average, Flagstaff sees 33.9 snowfall days each year and accumulates an estimated 21 inches. Of course, these figures can fluctuate greatly year to year.
Flagstaff has seen significant snowfall this January; indeed it has been one of the snowiest Januaries since record keeping started back in 1898! As per Monday, Flagstaff had received 57.9 inches.
Flagstaff’s high elevation means it receives more snowfall than cities in the lower valley, and its colder climate than Phoenix contributes to an extended snowy season. Snowfall can happen anytime of year; however, certain months are more likely than others for it to happen. This page details when and how it snows in Flagstaff including monthly/yearly averages for how often it snows as well as total amounts that typically accumulates over time.
