Curious about the last time it snowed in Texas? Explore historical snowfall data, impacts on communities, and how to prepare for future snowfall. Plus, learn about the effects of snowfall on transportation, power, and schools.
Overview of Last Time it Snowed in Texas
It’s not often that Texas experiences snowfall, but when it does, it can be quite the event. The last time it snowed in Texas was on December 7, 2017. The snowfall was widespread, covering areas from the Panhandle all the way down to the Gulf of Mexico.
Date and Location
The snowfall occurred on December 7, 2017, and lasted throughout the day and into the night. The areas that were most heavily impacted were the Panhandle, West Texas, and parts of Central Texas. Even areas that don’t typically see snow, such as Houston and Corpus Christi, experienced some flurries.
Amount of Snowfall
The amount of snowfall varied depending on the location, but some areas received up to 6 inches of snow. This may not seem like much to those who live in areas that experience heavy snowfall, but for Texans, it was a significant event.
Impact on Communities
The snowfall had a significant impact on communities across Texas. Many schools and businesses closed for the day, and some even closed the following day due to icy road conditions. Transportation was also impacted, with many flights being delayed or canceled, and road closures due to icy conditions.
The snowfall brought a sense of excitement and wonder to Texans who are not accustomed to seeing snow. People took to social media to share photos and videos of the snow-covered landscapes, creating a sense of community and togetherness.
Historical Snowfall Data in Texas
Texas is known for its warm weather and sunny skies, but it’s not uncommon for the state to experience rare snowfalls. In this section, we’ll take a deep dive into the historical snowfall data in Texas and explore the record snowfalls, frequency of snowfall, and climate trends.
Record Snowfalls in Texas
The Lone Star State has experienced some of the most memorable snowfalls in history. One of the most significant snowstorms occurred in 2011, where a winter storm dumped up to 15 inches of snow in some parts of the state, causing widespread power outages and traffic disruptions. Another notable snow event was in 1985 when a snowstorm brought up to 13 inches of snow in some areas.
However, the record for the most snowfall in Texas occurred in 1927. The snowstorm dumped a whopping 25 inches of snow in Canyon, Texas, and caused more than $1 million in damages.
Frequency of Snowfall in Texas
While Texas is known for its warm weather, snowfall is not an uncommon occurrence. According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Texas experiences an average of 5.2 snow days per year. However, this varies significantly depending on the location. The panhandle region of Texas receives the most snowfall, averaging around 10-20 inches per year, while the southern parts of the state receive little to no snow.
Climate Trends in Texas
Texas has experienced significant climate changes over the years, and these changes have affected the state’s snowfall patterns. According to the Texas State Climate Office, Texas has been experiencing warmer temperatures and less frequent snowfalls over the past few decades. This trend is expected to continue, with experts predicting that snowfall events will become even rarer in the future.
Effects of Snowfall in Texas
Snowfall in Texas can have various effects on the state, including transportation disruptions, power outages, and school closures.
Transportation Disruptions
Snow and ice can make roads and highways dangerous to drive on, leading to transportation disruptions. In Texas, where snow is a rare occurrence, many drivers are not equipped to handle such weather conditions. This can result in accidents, road closures, and delays in transportation. Additionally, airports may cancel or delay flights due to snow and ice on runways.
To prepare for transportation disruptions caused by snow, it is recommended to stay informed about weather and road conditions, avoid driving if possible, and ensure vehicles are equipped with appropriate tires and emergency supplies.
Power Outages
Snow and ice can also cause power outages in Texas. This is because snow and ice can accumulate on power lines and cause them to break under the weight, or trees and branches can fall on power lines. Additionally, extreme cold temperatures can cause equipment to malfunction, leading to power outages.
To prepare for power outages caused by snow, it is recommended to have emergency supplies such as flashlights, blankets, and non-perishable food on hand. It is also important to stay informed about weather conditions and power outage updates from utility companies.
School Closures
When snowfall occurs in Texas, schools may close due to safety concerns for students and staff. This can be due to transportation disruptions, power outages, or simply to avoid exposing students and staff to dangerous weather conditions.
To prepare for school closures caused by snow, it is recommended to stay informed about weather conditions and school closure announcements. Parents should also have a plan in place for childcare and ensure their children have appropriate winter clothing and emergency supplies.
Preparation for Snowfall in Texas
Winter weather can be unpredictable in Texas, and it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of snowfall. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer to the state, taking steps to prepare for snowy conditions can help keep you and your loved ones safe.
Winter Weather Advisories
One of the first steps in preparing for snowfall in Texas is to stay informed about weather conditions in your area. The National Weather Service provides winter weather advisories, watches, and warnings to help residents know what to expect and when to take action.
If a winter weather advisory is issued for your area, it means that snow and ice are possible, and you should take steps to prepare for the potential impact. A winter weather watch indicates that conditions are favorable for winter weather, while a winter weather warning means that significant snow or ice accumulation is expected.
Emergency Supplies
In the event of a snowstorm, it’s important to have emergency supplies on hand to help you weather the storm. Some essential items to have in your emergency kit include:
- Non-perishable food and water
- Blankets or sleeping bags
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Portable phone charger
- Sand or cat litter for traction on slippery surfaces
- Shovel for digging out your car or driveway
By having these supplies on hand, you can help ensure that you and your family are prepared for any potential disruptions caused by snowfall.
Driving in Snowy Conditions
If you need to venture out during a snowstorm, it’s important to take extra precautions to stay safe on the road. Some tips for driving in snowy conditions include:
- Reduce your speed and increase your following distance
- Avoid sudden movements or quick stops
- Use your headlights to improve visibility
- Brake gently and early to avoid skidding
- Accelerate slowly to avoid losing traction
Additionally, it’s a good idea to avoid driving altogether if possible during a snowstorm. If you do need to venture out, make sure to check road conditions and plan your route in advance.
Future Snowfall Predictions in Texas
As we look towards the future, there are several factors that come into play when trying to predict snowfall in Texas. One of the most significant factors is climate change and its impacts on the state’s weather patterns. Let’s take a closer look at how climate change is affecting Texas snowfall, the methods used to forecast snowfall, and potential snowfall scenarios.
Climate Change Impacts
Climate change is a real threat, and its effects are already being felt around the world. In Texas, climate change is leading to more extreme weather events, including snowfall. Warmer temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are causing more winter storms and snowfall in regions that typically do not experience such weather. In recent years, Texas has experienced some of the most significant snowfall events in its history, with some regions receiving over 10 inches of snow within a few days.
Forecasting Methods
To predict snowfall in Texas, meteorologists use a combination of data analysis, computer models, and real-time observations. They analyze data from weather satellites, radar, and other sources to create a forecast. Some of the factors considered when making a forecast include temperature, humidity, wind speed, and atmospheric pressure. Forecasting snowfall is a challenging task, and it requires a combination of science, technology, and experience.
Potential Snowfall Scenarios
When it comes to potential snowfall scenarios, several factors come into play, including the region, the time of year, and the severity of the storm. In some parts of Texas, snowfall is more common, while in others, it is a rare occurrence. However, as we mentioned earlier, with climate change, snowfall is becoming more frequent in regions that typically do not experience it. Some potential snowfall scenarios include:
- Light snowfall – This is the most common type of snowfall in Texas, typically resulting in less than an inch of snow.
- Moderate snowfall – This type of snowfall can result in 1-4 inches of snow and can cause some transportation disruptions.
- Heavy snowfall – This is the most severe type of snowfall, resulting in over 4 inches of snow. It can cause significant transportation disruptions, power outages, and school closures.
In conclusion, predicting snowfall in Texas is a complex task that involves analyzing several factors, including climate change, forecasting methods, and potential snowfall scenarios. While snowfall in Texas may not be as frequent as in other parts of the country, it’s essential to be prepared for the unexpected. Make sure you have emergency supplies, know how to drive in snowy conditions, and stay up-to-date on winter weather advisories. By doing so, you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe during the winter months.
