Flagstaff sits 7,000 feet above sea level and is one of the snowiest cities in America, according to the National Weather Service. A storm expected to move through between Thursday afternoon and Friday morning is projected to bring 12-18 inches more of white powder.
Snow is great for the high country and helps replenish aquifers, according to Salt River Project meteorologist Bo Svoma. However, driving in white-out conditions can be hazardous if drivers are unfamiliar with such driving conditions.
December
Flagstaff, Arizona was met with snowy conditions Thursday morning as the state’s high country kicked off their annual winter season. Flagstaff is known for its frequent and heavy snowfalls making it one of the top winter tourist destinations.
Flagstaff typically experiences its first snowfall of the year in November, although this can happen as early as October or as late as December. On average, November snowfall averages 1 inch with accumulation reaching over one foot at the summit of San Francisco Peaks during mid-December.
Flagstaff lies at an elevation of nearly 7000 feet (2,135 meters) and boasts ecosystems spanning pinon-juniper studded plateaus, high desert, and green alpine forest. Spending time outdoors at such an elevated altitude can cause fatigue and shortness of breath; drinking plenty of water and wearing sunscreen are recommended to minimize discomfort. This page compiles data on when, how much, and how often it snows in Flagstaff from records stored at Flagstaff Pulliam Airport as well as monthly and yearly averages for snowfall total and total days total snowfall figures as well as monthly and yearly averages for total snowfall and total days averages.
January
Flagstaff, Arizona and the United States is well-known for its snowiest city climate – featuring heavy snowfall from early December through to late February and an idyllic skiing scene that draws visitors from far and wide.
Flagstaff is known for its mountainous terrain and high elevation, making it an attractive ski destination as well as home to some of the Southwest’s most stunning natural wonders. Additionally, Flagstaff’s cooler temperatures provide an escape from hotter desert areas in Arizona.
National Weather Service data showed this month was Flagstaff’s fourth snowiest ever, and with only days left in December it may surpass even that record. These numbers come after a series of snowstorms which closed schools and highways, forcing state transportation officials to issue advisories warning drivers off high-country roads unless necessary – leading to some roads near the Grand Canyon being shut as a result.
February
Flagstaff was hit with several inches of snow over the past weekend, blanketing cars and signs with white. Due to this heavy accumulation, schools and government offices closed, as well as blocking much of Interstate 40.
Flagstaff typically experiences some form of precipitation on an average of 83 days each year, including rain, snow, sleet and hail.
Flagstaff typically sees some of its coldest and snowiest months during February. Residents can anticipate six snowfall days and 5.94″ of accumulation during this month.
Flagstaff offers something for everyone looking for an exciting ski vacation or simply seeking outdoor recreation. Its climate features four distinct seasons: summers are warm and dry while autumn and winter bring snowfall and cold temperatures; monsoon season from late July to August brings heavy afternoon rainfalls; throughout all four seasons, Flagstaff remains beautiful, making it one of the premier places to visit in Arizona. Check out this page for more details regarding its weather patterns!
March
With recent snowstorms largely done and dusted away, northern Arizona may soon experience a respite. According to the National Weather Service, Munds Park and Kachina Village had received 24.5 inches as of 8 am Thursday according to National Weather Service statistics; which brought Flagstaff Pulliam Airport total accumulation to 140.1 inches through Wednesday — second only to 153.9 seen between July 1947-49 at Flagstaff Pulliam Airport.
City crews have been diligently clearing off 700 miles of streets, 131 miles of bike lanes, 42 miles of sidewalk and 27,000 driveways daily – covering more than 2,600 miles daily!
At an elevation of 6,910 feet (2,106 meters), Flagstaff provides four seasons and an inspiring climate, from pinon-juniper studded plateaus and high desert to alpine forests and green alpine meadows. As its higher altitude permits temperatures 20-30 degrees cooler than Phoenix year-round – ideal conditions for spending time outdoors while taking proper precautions against sun protection.
April
On Thursday, as a cold front passes through Northern Arizona, light snow may fall in areas near Munds Park and Kachina Village, according to the National Weather Service. While this will have only minor impact on wildfire conditions, it will also help lower temperatures in this part of Arizona.
Flagstaff experiences an average temperature in April of 67F (19C). On average, its lows drop to 36F (2C). Temperatures typically feel moderately cold, prompting most residents to wear sweaters or jackets for warmth.
Flagstaff experiences an average wind speed of 15.2 miles per hour (24.1 knots).
