Arizona residents are currently grappling with monsoon flooding across the state, particularly in urban centers like Phoenix and Flagstaff, as heavy rains have inundated roadways and transformed rivers into raging torrents.
Phoenix is widely recognized for its sweltering 100-degree temperatures and minimal rainfall throughout the year. Yet, some may find it surprising to learn that snow can indeed fall over this desert city.
The thought of snow gracing the streets of Phoenix may astonish its residents, who generally anticipate a predominantly rainy winter season, making any snow an unusual spectacle.
While the snowfall in Phoenix doesn’t rival the substantial blizzards and winter storms that frequently blanket higher elevations such as Flagstaff or Pinetop-Lakeside, the city is still capable of experiencing rare moments when delicate snowflakes drift down from the sky.
When is the last time it snowed in Phoenix?
The last notable snowfall in Phoenix occurred on December 6, 1998, when a minor trace of snow was recorded at Sky Harbor Airport, along with slight accumulation in the northwest area of the Valley.
However, areas at higher elevations surrounding the metropolitan Phoenix region are more likely to encounter snow than the valley itself, often resulting in picturesque winter landscapes in those locales.
What’s the most it has ever snowed in Phoenix?
Documented history indicates that Phoenix’s snowiest day, marked by an impressive half-inch of snow, occurred on February 2, 1939, captivating residents with a rare winter wonderland.
According to records from the National Weather Service, the following are the snowiest days ever recorded in Phoenix:
- Feb. 2, 1939: 0.5 inches
- Dec. 21 and 22, 1990: 0.4 inches
- March 12, 1917: 0.2 inches
- Nov. 28, 1919: 0.2 inches
- Dec. 11, 1985: 0.1 inches
Will it snow in metro Phoenix this year?
According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, temperatures across Arizona are expected to dip below normal this winter, with predictions of above-average rainfall for the entire desert southwest region, encompassing cities like Phoenix, Tucson, and Yuma.
While the likelihood of snowfall in Phoenix remains low during the winter months, the possibility still looms, adding an element of intrigue to the city’s winter weather forecast.
When is it most likely to snow in metro Phoenix?
If snow were to blanket the city, it is most probable during the coldest months of January or February, though remarkable occurrences of snow have been recorded in March, November, and December on rare occasions.
Reach the reporter at zbradshaw@gannett.com or on X at @ZachBradshaw14.
**Interview with Meteorologist Dr. Emily Hayes on Arizona’s Monsoon Flooding and Snowfall History**
**Editor (E):** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Hayes. With Arizona currently facing monsoon flooding, particularly in urban areas like Phoenix and Flagstaff, what are the primary factors contributing to this extreme weather?
**Dr. Emily Hayes (H):** Thanks for having me. The monsoon season in Arizona is influenced by the Southwest Monsoon, which typically begins in late June and continues into September. This year’s heavy rainfall can be attributed to a combination of atmospheric conditions, including shifts in humidity and wind patterns, which have led to intense thunderstorms. The saturation of the ground from previous rains has also created conditions ripe for flooding.
**E:** That’s interesting. Now, shifting gears to something that might surprise some residents: the possibility of snow in Phoenix. Can you explain how it is that snow can occur in a city known for its heat?
**H:** Absolutely! While Phoenix is renowned for its hot climate, particularly in the summer months, it is not entirely unheard of for the city to see snow. Snowfall in Phoenix is quite rare, but the elevation and unique geographical features mean that under the right conditions, we can experience light flurries. In fact, the last significant snowfall was in December 1998, when we recorded a trace of snow at Sky Harbor Airport.
**E:** And what about the historical perspective? What has been the most significant snowfall recorded in Phoenix?
**H:** The most snowfall Phoenix has ever experienced in a single day is a remarkable half-inch, which happened on February 2. It’s a fun fact that emphasizes how unusual snow is for our region. Most of the heavier snow accumulation tends to happen in surrounding higher elevations, like Flagstaff, where winter landscapes are quite a sight to see.
**E:** Given these weather extremes, how is Arizona adapting to the challenges posed by both flooding and rare winter weather events?
**H:** Adaptation is key. Urban planners and local governments are increasingly focused on improving drainage systems to handle heavy rainfall and prevent flooding. Public awareness campaigns about the risks of monsoon storms and winter weather are also essential. Furthermore, technologies like predictive modeling help us forecast these events better, allowing residents to prepare accordingly.
**E:** Thank you, Dr. Hayes, for shedding light on these fascinating and sometimes alarming weather phenomena in Arizona.
**H:** My pleasure! Stay safe out there, everyone.
