The city operates and maintains over 700 miles of roadway and 8 miles of alleys that require multiple passes by equipment to fully plow, classified as First Priority Areas.
Flagstaff usually experiences major snowstorms of at least 10 inches every winter. Below you will find a table that provides the monthly and yearly averages of snowfall days and depth for Flagstaff.
January
Flagstaff has seen 61.4 inches of snow already this month – marking it as the 4th snowiest January ever seen there!
Flagstaff still has over one week remaining this month to make a push into third or even second place, behind only 1949 for snowfall totals.
Recharging our local aquifers with rainwater is excellent news, giving us access to more drinking water during summer months – but it can leave roads slippery in its wake.
February
Flagstaff is an amazing place to call home if you prefer four distinct seasons with cooler temperatures than Phoenix. Due to its high elevation, Flagstaff receives abundant snowfall during its winter months.
Snow-laden streets and sidewalks piled high with snow accumulated after a major snowstorm closed NAU and disrupted Mountain Line bus service on Feb. 23, 2023, prompting city equipment to make multiple passes across 700 miles of roadways and 27,000 driveways to clear them, slowing traffic while creating breathtaking winter wonderlands!
March
Flagstaff receives snowfall on most days during its winter season from early December to late February. On average, Flagstaff experiences 33.9 snowfall days annually and may accumulate as much as 103.6 inches.
Summer months in the city span May to August. These months are perfect for enjoying outdoor activities as day temperatures remain comfortable and cool; at the same time, high country aquifers receive their refill of freshwater supplies that help sustain communities and the surrounding ecosystems.
April
An oncoming storm in Northern Arizona could bring snowfall to Flagstaff by Friday evening – possibly up to one inch of accumulation in some locations.
Flagstaff experiences rainfall throughout the year, with January and February being particularly wet months.
Flagstaff typically experiences some type of precipitation on an average of 83 days each year, whether in the form of rain, snow, sleet or any combination thereof. Wet days generally span 2.1 months – from September 10 to July 7; June is typically dry.
June
Northern Arizona schools have announced they are closing or delaying classes due to a heavy snowstorm bringing freezing temperatures and dusty conditions to the high country.
Flagstaff was hit with six to nine inches of snowfall this week, prompting several highways to close due to impending snowfall this weekend.
This winter has been one of the snowiest since records began being kept in the late 1800s. Here are some highlights:
July
Flagstaff offers its residents an enviable four-season lifestyle. At an elevation of 7,000 feet and with pleasant winter temperatures, residents can appreciate snowy mountain landscapes while taking advantage of an abundance of recreational facilities and activities.
The National Weather Service office in Bellemont reports that Flagstaff Pulliam Airport has seen 140.1 inches of snow so far this winter season – second only to 1948-1949’s total accumulation.
The City of Grand Forks maintains over 700 lane miles of roads, 8 miles of alleys and 42 miles of sidewalks; equipment makes multiple passes over these areas in order to remove snow as efficiently as possible.
August
Flagstaff typically experiences several snowfall days in August, though these tend to be light accumulations that won’t accumulate too heavily.
Snowfall is most prevalent between early December and late February; however, snow can also fall at other times of year.
Flagstaff sits 7,000 feet above sea level, so when it rains in Phoenix, that same precipitation becomes snow in Flagstaff – good news for Flagstaff’s aquafers that work to replenish Salt and Verde reservoirs during periods of drought. Furthermore, it helps keep water flowing during these droughts.
September
September typically brings the season’s initial snowfall. A significant blizzard last year blanketed aspen groves and covered roads in white.
Fall in Northern Arizona is beautiful – whether you hike Humphrey’s Peak or simply stroll the Flagstaff Urban Trail System. Or take in autumn scenery from your car at Lockett Meadow and Inner Basin Trail!
On average, December snowfall averages 27 inches annually while on light years it may only fall 9 inches or so.
October
The initial snowfall of the season typically falls in October, helping reduce drought conditions and replenish runoff from Mogollon Rim areas.
Flagstaff weather during October tends to be mild and pleasant, with an average relative humidity level around 45%.
Flagstaff enjoys beautiful summer days that are often sunny and dry, while temperatures start to dip with winter’s arrival. November is one of the coldest months here; making this an excellent time for hiking through beautiful autumn scenery.
November
November is Flagstaff’s final month of autumn and begins its transition into winter, although snowfall typically remains light despite any occasional dustings that might happen over a few days.
Winter can be a busy season for road crews in snow-covered regions. Snow helps recharge underground aquifers while keeping temperatures down.
Flagstaff residents should expect snowfall at Christmas. Over a thirty year period, there has been significant snowfall on Christmas 65% of the time.
