Albuquerque, New Mexico, is known for its dry, sunny climate and high-desert landscape. The city is situated at a high elevation, over 5,300 feet above sea level, contributing to intense sunshine and low humidity. This geographic setting creates a unique environment where the winter season is mild but still capable of producing snowfall. The frequency and amount of snow are a common point of curiosity for those unfamiliar with the region.
Average Snowfall and Frequency
It does snow in Albuquerque, though the total accumulation is modest compared to more northern cities. The official weather station records an average annual snowfall that typically falls in the range of 8 to 11 inches. This measurement establishes the baseline for the city’s winter weather experience.
This total snowfall is distributed across a relatively small number of events each year. On average, Albuquerque experiences measurable snowfall—defined as 0.1 inches or more—on approximately 8.5 days per year. While snow is a predictable part of the winter season, major, multi-day accumulations are the exception. The city’s overall winter precipitation remains low in this high-desert setting.
Seasonal Timing and Duration
Snow events in Albuquerque are most concentrated during the core winter months, primarily spanning from December through March. December is statistically the month that receives the highest average accumulation. Snowfall in November and April is possible but occurs with far less frequency and usually results in only minor amounts.
A defining characteristic of Albuquerque’s snow is its short duration on the ground, a direct consequence of the arid climate and high elevation. Following a snow event, the intense New Mexico sunshine and low humidity rapidly melt the snowpack. It is common for snow to disappear from pavement and open areas within a day or two. Daytime highs typically climb above freezing, facilitating the quick transition back to clear conditions.
Elevation and Local Variation
The official snowfall averages do not represent a uniform experience across the entire Albuquerque metropolitan area, which is influenced by varied topography. The city sits on a vast plain that slopes dramatically upward toward the towering Sandia Mountains to the east. This difference in elevation creates microclimates that result in varying snow totals across different neighborhoods.
Lower-elevation areas, such as the Rio Grande Valley and the West Mesa, receive amounts closer to the official 8 to 11-inch average. However, the higher-elevation neighborhoods, particularly the Northeast Heights and areas nestled in the foothills, experience significantly more snow. These higher locales can accumulate several inches more per storm due to cooler temperatures and their direct proximity to the mountain range, which intercepts more moisture. This pronounced topographic effect ensures that one part of the city can be clear and dry while another, only a few miles away, is covered in a substantial blanket of snow.