Flagstaff has an expansive history rooted in ranching, lumber mills and railroads; today it serves as a tourist town that experiences four distinct seasons.
Wednesday’s snowstorm brought Flagstaff Pulliam Airport within inches of setting its all-time seasonal snowfall record of 1948-49; Bellemont National Weather Service Office also broke their mark.
Winter
Flagstaff is known to receive over 100 inches of snowfall annually, making it one of the snowiest cities in America. At 6,910 ft above sea level, its climate differs greatly from its warmer cities such as Phoenix and Tucson – typically 20-30 degrees cooler!
Flagstaff has witnessed one of the snowiest winters ever in its history this winter. By March 1, they had received over 140 inches at Flagstaff Pulliam Airport – second-highest total since record keeping started back in 1925!
Heavy snowfall this season was great news for local ski resorts, such as Arizona Ski Bowl. The massive amounts of snow created unparalleled powder conditions on the mountain – creating epic powder conditions perfect for skiers. However, heavy snowfall caused problems on roadways in northern Arizona; specifically State Route 93 between Kingman and Flagstaff which was closed for over five hours due to poor road conditions and traffic issues.
Flagstaff is a gorgeous city to live and visit. Unfortunately, its high altitude can pose breathing challenges to some individuals with respiratory illnesses. Luckily, there are resources available to prevent or manage symptoms, including smoking cessation programs, low-fat diets and exercise; additionally, medications and supplemental oxygen treatments may be prescribed.
Spring
Flagstaff Airport data reveals that this winter’s blizzards have broken all-time snowfall records for Flagstaff city, surpassing them by more than seven inches within just two months – this surpassing previous snowfall records set back in 1948-49! Arizona residents have enjoyed an unforgettable skiing season thanks to this remarkable snowfall totals totals.
However, these storms have also proven a challenge for commuters on busy highways around the city. Estevan Svoma from Flagstaff Towing and Recovery has been tireless in his work helping stranded drivers – over 12 highways were closed at their peak; since the snow has started melting off of these highways Estevan has seen his calls decrease substantially.
Even with all of this year’s snowfall, Seattle still falls well within its normal snowfall range for December – where heavy years often see over 27 inches while lighter years only get under 9 inches.
Flagstaff typically experiences its first snowfall of the year between October and April, with temperatures mostly remaining dry in between. Flagstaff’s growing season typically lasts approximately 4.1 months from May to October based on an average number of growing degree days accrued over time, which are calculated using integral warming over base temperature – this number may differ year to year depending on climate changes.
Summer
Flagstaff boasts an altitude of 7,000 feet and enjoys four distinct seasons; snowfall can arrive as early as November or late as mid-May; peak snow season usually falls in February.
Flagstaff is known as one of the premier destinations in Arizona for many travelers, due to its natural wonder, Grand Canyon. But visitors should not neglect other attractions that call Flagstaff home such as 4th of July parades and fireworks displays as well as Pickin in the Pines bluegrass festival; you will surely find something enjoyable here for everyone in your family.
Flagstaff’s dry season typically lasts 9.6 months and the chance of wet days ranges between 22%-31% throughout the year, peaking in August with an average of 11.7 wet days a month.
Flagstaff is an ideal destination for stargazing enthusiasts and was one of the first cities worldwide to receive certification as an International Dark-Sky City. Flagstaff’s light pollution reduction efforts allow visitors to experience night sky views that surpass those in most other cities; so be sure to bring along your telescope when making plans to visit!
Fall
Flagstaff is a four-season destination with much to offer visitors. Summer temperatures average in the low 80s with sapphire blue skies and crisp mountain air; Fall brings colorful aspens quaking aspen leaves; Winter Wonderland adventures await while Spring unfolds breathtaking beauty with reds and purples covering one of the world’s largest contiguous emerald green ponderosa pine forests.
Flagstaff Pulliam Airport saw an astonishing 140 inches of snow fall between December 1 and March 1. This makes for the second-highest season total but still falls short of 1948-1949’s record mark of 154 inches set during that year. Should it remain on the ground during summertime, its continued accumulation could help replenish Mogollon Rim’s water runoff supply while decreasing fire risks significantly.
Flagstaff residents are known to be hardy individuals. They’ve learned to appreciate both its dry climate and outdoor adventure opportunities provided by its cool, pristine environment. Citizens here are committed to conserving natural heritage; hence why Flagstaff was given the title “International Dark-Sky City.” Disc golf has also become immensely popular here with four complete basket courses on NAU campus featuring 18 holes.
