Does It Ever Snow in Oklahoma City?

While it might seem like an unusual occurrence, snow does indeed fall in Oklahoma City, albeit with some frequency. The city's winter weather is characterized by occasional but light snowfall, making it a rare but exciting event for residents. This article explores the frequency and occurrence of snow in Oklahoma City and provides insights into the city's unique climate.

Frequency of Snowfall

Oklahoma City typically experiences a few snow events each winter, with the average annual snowfall ranging from about 5 to 10 inches. Most of the snow occurs between December and February, with significant accumulations being rare. However, the occasional blizzard can hit the region, affecting all of the United States.

Surprisingly, the southwestern part of the state, including much of western Oklahoma, rarely, if ever, experiences snow. This can vary depending on the specific town, with some regions receiving more precipitation in the form of rain.

Weather Patterns and Snowfall in Population Centers

The three largest population centers in Oklahoma – Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Lawton – all experience similar but slightly differing patterns of snowfall. Oklahoma City and Tulsa typically see one 4-inch or greater snowfall event every 1 to 2 years. Meanwhile, Lawton experiences these events less frequently, with an average of one 4-inch or greater snowfall event every 10 to 20 years.

When it comes to heavier snowfall, the statistics are even more striking. Oklahoma City and Tulsa each see 8-inch or greater snowfall events about once every 5 to 10 years. In contrast, Lawton experiences such heavy snowfall roughly every 10 to 20 years.

Maxima and Minima of Snowfall

The maximum snowfall in a single day in Oklahoma City was recorded on December 24, 2009, when the snow accumulation reached 13.5 inches (34.3 cm). However, the record low snowfall was minimal, with some winters recording only a trace amount of snow, such as in 1931-32 and 1934-35.

Historically, the most significant snowfall in a single winter season was 25.2 inches (64.0 cm) in the winter of 1947-48. This rare event demonstrates the potential for significant snowfall, even though it is not a common occurrence.

Climate and Seasons in Oklahoma City

The unique climate of Oklahoma City is due to its geographical location and the tilt of the Earth at approximately 23.5 degrees. This tilt results in four distinct seasons, each with its own characteristics. The city enjoys long periods of sunshine, which influence the types of weather it experiences.

While summer in Oklahoma and western north Texas can seem endless, the rest of the year consists of short but distinguishing seasons. Snowfall is a relatively rare phenomenon, making when it does occur a special event for the city's residents.

Despite the occasional snowfall, Oklahoma City's climate remains relatively mild, with moderate temperatures throughout the year. This suggests that while winter can be cold, the city's overall weather pattern is generally favorable, making it a unique place for both residents and visitors alike.