Despite Arizona’s widespread reputation for its hot desert climate, it does indeed experience snowfall. While much of the state is known for its arid and semi-arid conditions, certain regions regularly receive significant amounts of snow during the colder months. Arizona’s diverse geography, encompassing deserts, extensive mountain ranges, and high plateaus, often surprises those unfamiliar with its climate.
Where Snowfall Occurs
Snowfall in Arizona is predominantly found in the northern and eastern parts of the state, particularly in areas with higher elevations. Locations such as Flagstaff, Prescott, and Payson frequently receive snow. The White Mountains, including areas around Greer and Show Low, also receive snow. Additionally, the Grand Canyon, especially its North Rim, experiences substantial snowfall.
These snowy regions are typically situated above 5,000 feet in elevation. Flagstaff, for instance, sits at nearly 7,000 feet, contributing to its status as one of the snowiest cities in the United States. Prescott is at approximately 5,300 feet, and Payson is around 5,000 feet. Higher altitudes lead to colder temperatures, allowing precipitation to fall as snow rather than rain. Even areas like Mount Lemmon, south of Phoenix near Tucson, receive snow due to their elevation.
Seasonal Snowfall and Accumulation
Snow in Arizona primarily falls from early December through March. However, some higher elevation areas can see snow as early as October, persisting into late spring or early summer. The timing and duration of snowfall depend on elevation and winter storm systems.
Accumulation amounts vary significantly. Flagstaff, Arizona’s snowiest city, averages around 100 inches annually. Other areas like Show Low receive less, with averages of about 4 inches in December and 3 inches in February. Lower elevation areas, such as parts of Tucson, might occasionally see a light dusting, but it rarely lasts long due to warmer ground temperatures. In higher elevations, the snowpack builds up, supporting winter sports and contributing to the state’s water supply as it melts.
Factors Determining Snowfall
The occurrence of snow in Arizona is governed by meteorological and geographical factors. Elevation plays a primary role, as temperatures decrease with increasing altitude. This cooling effect ensures that when moisture-laden air masses reach higher elevations, the air temperature is often below freezing, allowing precipitation to form as snow. Flagstaff’s higher elevation compared to Phoenix, for example, directly accounts for its frequent snowfall while Phoenix remains warm.
Winter storm systems, often originating from the Pacific Ocean, deliver the necessary moisture. These cold air masses move across the state, particularly impacting the northern and eastern mountain ranges.
Another important factor is orographic lift, where moist air is forced upwards as it encounters mountain barriers. As this air rises, it cools, leading to condensation and precipitation. This process often results in heavy snowfall on the windward sides of mountains, contributing to the significant snow accumulations seen in Arizona’s higher terrain. Arizona’s varied climate zones create these conditions, allowing for significant snowfall in specific areas.