Franklin, Tennessee, does experience snowfall, though it is generally a light and infrequent occurrence. The region’s humid subtropical climate means that winter precipitation is more commonly rain, but conditions occasionally align for snow to fall. Compared to northern regions that see sustained, heavy snow, Franklin’s winter weather is typically a brief event. The mild character of the winter season affects both the amount of snow that falls and how long it remains on the ground.
Average Snowfall and Frequency
The average annual snowfall in Franklin is modest, typically accumulating to about four inches per year. This low figure is spread across the entire winter season, meaning major, deep snow events are highly unusual.
The number of days that record measurable snowfall is very small. Most years see only two to three distinct snow events that produce more than a dusting on the ground. Accumulations exceeding six inches in a single storm are historically rare and considered a significant weather anomaly.
When Winter Weather Occurs
The window for snow in Franklin is short, primarily spanning from late December through the end of February. January consistently stands out as the snowiest month, accounting for a large portion of the total annual accumulation. During this peak month, the average low temperature drops to around 30 degrees Fahrenheit, which is cold enough to support snowfall when moisture is present.
While snow is the most anticipated form of winter precipitation, other weather events are sometimes more frequent. Freezing rain and sleet are also possible during the coldest months, often resulting in a slick, icy mix rather than soft snow. This wintry mix can present challenging travel conditions when temperatures hover near the freezing point.
Duration of Snow Cover
Once snow falls in Franklin, it rarely remains on the ground for an extended period. The mild winter climate, with average daytime high temperatures in January reaching near 50 degrees Fahrenheit, drives a rapid melting process. Any accumulation that occurs is typically temporary, often disappearing within 24 to 48 hours of the storm’s end.
This pattern of quick melting is due to the sun’s angle and the relatively warm ground temperatures, which quickly heat up once the precipitation stops.
Because substantial snow cover is uncommon, local infrastructure, including school systems and road departments, reacts quickly to even minor accumulation. Schools often close or delay openings at the first sight of accumulating snow or ice, acknowledging the community’s lack of preparedness for slick roads, which quickly become hazardous.