Texas may not be the first location that comes to mind when you think of snow, with its usually mild temperature and iconic imagery of cactus, ranches, and hot-weather hobbies. It does, however, have a number of high-altitude places where it is chilly enough to have snow in the winter. Remember the February 2021 snowfall, when many homes were cut off totally when pipes broke and Houston was blanketed with snow? It only goes to demonstrate that it can snow in Texas.
So, how often does it snow in Texas and if it does, where would you expect to see snow and colder temps throughout the winter?
While snow is uncommon in Texas, it has been recorded on multiple occasions and may occur at low temperatures across the state.
Let’s take a look at some of the spots in Texas where it has snowed, as well as what to expect from the Texas environment in general.
How is the climate in Texas?
The state of Texas has a wide range of weather, due to its diverse terrain, which includes desert portions in the west and humid ones in the east. Because Texas has such a big surface area (695,662 km2), major weather variations are possible. Furthermore, Texas is a tornado hotspot, with an average of 139 tornadoes every year.
Record cold and snow events in Texas?
Even the colder parts of Texas, in general, could be called snow-free practically any year. However, there have been a few notable snowstorms and cold spells that are worth highlighting.
Northern Texas was hit by a massive snowfall in February 1956, with 61 inches of snow falling near Vega. Is it snowing in El Paso? On December 13-14, 1987, they received 22.4 inches of snow over 24 hours.
One of the harshest winters ever recorded in Texas occurred in December 1983, when four weather stations in the state reported temperatures of 32 degrees Fahrenheit for the longest period of time. Temperatures in Lubbock were below freezing for 207 hours straight, while temperatures in the Dallas-Fort Worth airport were at or below freezing for 296 hours.
Most recently, a record-breaking cold spell hit the state in February 2021, causing widespread disruption. Austin has had below-freezing weather for the past seven days. The Central Texas area, which includes Waco, established a new record for consecutive days below freezing.
Regular snow in Texas
In a normal year, you may anticipate snow in Texas throughout the winter, however it will be far less than in other northern states. The average snowfall is 0.1 inches, and it normally melts in a few days, so there isn’t much of a problem.
The western area of Texas receives the greatest snowfall, with Amarillo (17.8 inches), Lubbock (8.2 inches), and El Paso receiving the most (6.9 inches). The next greatest site for snow is Wichita Falls in North Central Texas, which receives about 4.2 inches per year. The rest of the state would generally only receive a little quantity of snow, if any at all.
Must see: The Absolute Best Places to See Bluebonnets in Texas
6 places where to find snow in Texas?
Of course, Texas isn’t the first location that comes to mind when you think of snow. Classic country music and nearly ridiculous short shorts are perhaps the first things that come to mind when you think about Texas. Did you know, though, that Texas is also noted for its high quantities of snowfall? Is it possible to have snow in Texas? Yes, it is true!
Although it isn’t seen everywhere, certain parts of Texas see a lot of snow each year.
Amarillo
When people ask us, “Where does it snow in Texas?” The first place that comes to mind is Amarillo. This Texan town is also one of the finest spots in Texas to observe snow!
Related: 11 Amazing Texas Beach Towns for a Perfect Texas Beach Getaway
If you’re going to Amarillo, be in mind that snow might make driving a little more dangerous than usual. It’s nothing to be concerned about, but we thought we’d let you know. Traveling here by automobile should be acceptable if you take normal care.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is the place to go for the greatest vistas. The trip from Amarillo is quite short, and the vistas you’ll be treated to when you reach the park are breathtaking.
In Texas, where does it snow? Amarillo, most likely! There are plenty of things to do in Amarillo, so it’s a lot of fun there!
Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is another solution to the question “where does it snow in Texas?” Although there isn’t usually snow in this location, the summits of the mountains are frequently blanketed with beautiful, settled snow. If snow is expected in the region, make a point of driving down the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. It’s a drive not to be missed, both in and out of the snow.
If you don’t have much time on your hands, the Chisos Mountains are the place to go. The hiking paths in this area are not for the faint of heart, since they are highly complicated and can be treacherous in the winter. With over 150 miles of trails to choose from, you’ll be able to pick one that suits your fitness level. Is it possible to have snow in Texas? Yes, and Big Bend National Park has a decent probability of seeing snow.
See: 11 Great Natural Springs in Texas Will Blow You Away
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, how I love it. If you haven’t yet added this location to your Texas bucket list, we strongly advise you to do so. This vast national park, located near the Mexican border, is home to all of Texas’ tallest peaks. This is a nice response to the question, “Where does it snow in Texas?”
If you didn’t know, the higher you go, the more likely you are to have snow!
During a normal winter in Texas, Guadalupe Peak is likely to be blanketed in snow. In addition, the hiking routes in this national park occasionally receive settled snow. If you go to this location, make sure you have good hiking boots and are dressed appropriately. Winter may be incredibly cold, and because you’ll be out on the trails for the majority of the day, you won’t want to be unprepared — believe us on this!
El Paso
El Paso is a city in the United States that is located near the Mexican border. Even though this location doesn’t get a lot of snow in the winter, we thought it was worth noting because there’s so much to do here. El Paso receives about 4 inches of snow on average throughout the winter. This may not appear to be much, but once situated in the Franklin Mountains, it appears to be rather plentiful (here are some gorgeous photos).
Travel to Franklin Mountain State Parks for a genuine Winter Wonderland experience. This location not only has gorgeous routes, but it also brings you to high land with plenty of settled snow.
Don’t forget to bring your camera; the park is insanely beautiful!
Lubbock
We strongly advise visiting Lubbock if you want to maximize your chances of experiencing snow in Texas. This high elevation region is not only beautiful, but it also gets snow between late October and early April each year. During the winter, you can expect to see roughly 8 inches of snow on average. As a result, we believe you’ll have plenty of opportunities to unleash your inner snow queen or king here.
Lubbock may not have as much to offer as the other Texan cities on our list, but it is worth a visit for its tranquil environment and natural beauty. When it snows, the entire region is blanketed in a beautiful blanket of white. It makes for great images, believe us when we say that.
If you visit Lubbock, we strongly advise you to see the Buddy Holly Center and Statue. Buddy Holly was born in Lubbock, if you didn’t already know. As a result, any fan should add this to their list of things to do in Lubbock! Lubbock is a decent bet if you’re wondering where it snows in Texas.
See: 16 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Texas You Need to Visit ASAP
Dallas
Let us present you with our first solution to the question, “Where does it snow in Texas?” Dallas.
How often does it snow in Dallas Texas? Dallas is becoming one of those cities that can be visited at any time of year. However, we think it’s a fantastic place to come during the winter months when the locals go all out with Christmas decorations and holiday events.
It’s worth noting, though, that snow does not fall in Dallas every year.
See more: Dallas To Austin Drive: Best Places to Stop, Useful Tips and Things To Do
There are certain winters when the temperature does not drop low enough for flurries to occur. However, if you live close and want to try a visit during the winter, you could be in luck! The finest snow-spotting months are January, February, and March, therefore we recommend planning a vacation during those months.
See also: 15 Best Texas Souvenirs And Gifts To Buy When You Visit Texas
Artificial snow, tubing, ice skating, and other festive activities are good alternatives if you couldn’t see the actual thing. How often does it snow in Texas? Is no longer a question for everyone. Hope you enjoy your holiday with your family!
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