Cold air, moisture and lift were present for this storm that brought heavy snowfall in Flagstaff.
On Wednesday evening, snow began falling heavily across northern Arizona, including Flagstaff and Williams. Schools were forced to close in these cities as a result. Embry-Riddle University also experienced some closures.
January
Flagstaff is an ideal winter destination, with temperatures typically 20-30 degrees cooler than Phoenix – making for an excellent break from desert heat! In addition to cooler temps, Flagstaff also boasts one of the snowiest cities in America.
Flagstaff typically sees an average snowfall of 4.1 inches during January compared to an annual average of 20.7 inches; this figure is considerably higher due to Flagstaff’s climate and high elevation.
According to the National Weather Service, this year has been one of the snowiest on record in Flagstaff. By Monday morning, they had seen an unprecedented accumulation of 57.9 inches compared to 20.9 in past years – and at this rate could even surpass 1949’s 104.8-inch record!
Flagstaff remains cold throughout February. On average, Flagstaff receives an average snowfall of 3.1 inches during this month compared to an annual average of 20.7 miles. Most snowfall in Flagstaff occurs in winter months while smaller amounts can also fall during Autumn and Summer seasons.
February
A strong low pressure system brought a winter storm to the region this week, producing heavy snowfall across Mogollon Rim and other high country areas, producing several inches of new accumulation resulting in school closures, government office shutdowns and an extended closure of Interstate 40.
Flagstaff sits at an elevation of 7,000 feet, so it receives more seasonal snowfall than most cities across Arizona. Although snowfall patterns vary each year, on average Flagstaff usually experiences 33.9 snowfall days each year with average amounts between 11 inches in drought years and over 200 inches during an El Nino event year.
Flagstaff has experienced some of the snowiest winters ever seen in Arizona history in recent years, including an outstanding 2022-23 meteorological winter which ranked fifth since records started being kept in the late 1800s.
Although snowfall can make driving tricky, there are ways you can prepare for winter weather in Flagstaff. First and foremost, make sure you check your car prior to leaving home; additionally, be sure to carry extra clothes, food, water and medicine just in case an emergency arises; additionally make sure you stay on main roads when driving!
March
Flagstaff experiences snowfall throughout its winter season, adding a special charm and atmosphere. Snowfall plays an integral part of Flagstaff culture and character and draws tourists every year; its cold temperatures and heavy snowfall draw skiers and snowboarders from across Arizona and even further afield.
Flagstaff typically experiences snowfall for 6.2 days in February, accumulating 5.94 inches total – making the month the second snowiest of the year.
Northern Arizona was hit with its largest snowstorm of the year on Wednesday evening through Thursday morning, particularly around Flagstaff and Munds Park/Kachina Village where up to two feet of snow has accumulated in 24 hours.
Tucson was under a snowfall warning issued by the National Weather Service, prompting residents to cover plants, wrap pipes and bring pets indoors as soon as possible.
Flagstaff doesn’t receive as much precipitation as other parts of the US, yet still experiences many wet days each year. Autumn and Spring tend to bring the most rain while Summer tends to remain relatively dry.
April
Flagstaff typically experience cold, damp temperatures into April. Average daily temperatures range from warm highs to chilly lows in this month. Therefore, snowfall events have occurred even as late as May!
On some winter days, it can snow up to ten inches of fresh snowfall, creating hazardous snowstorms which should only be experienced by those equipped with proper training and safety gear. Drivers in northern Arizona should also keep this in mind; driving conditions may be hazardous.
Snowfall in Flagstaff may cause those sensitive to cold temperatures some discomfort due to its altitude – over one mile high! This allows air pressure and temperatures to drop significantly, leading to colder temperatures overall and itchy skin or eyes from its dry climate.
As winter in Flagstaff approaches, there are various strategies available to you for preparation. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, using sunscreen when outdoors and drinking plenty of water are great ways to stay safe from the cold. Furthermore, windshield defrosters can prevent the buildup of ice on your vehicle while adding an antifreeze additive may further decrease risks of freezing engine components.
