El Paso, Texas, is located in the Chihuahuan Desert in the southwestern United States, where the climate is typically dry and warm. However, because it is located at a high elevation (3,800 feet above sea level), El Paso can experience rainfall of around 10 inches on average per year. But does it Snow in El Paso, Texas?
Does it Snow in El Paso, Texas?
It is rare for snow to fall in El Paso, Texas, but it does happen on occasion. The last time it snowed significant amounts was in December of 2015.
El Paso has a long and storied history with snow. The city sees an average of 3-5 inches of snowfall each year, but there have been some years where the city has seen much more – and much less.
On December 13-24, 1987, El Paso saw its heaviest recorded snowfall when an impressive 22 inches blanketed the city.
More recently, in 2015, the city saw 8.1 inches of snowfall which is still higher than the average snowfall that El Paso normally gets, which is around 3 to 5 inches per year.
How Often Does It Snow In El Paso, Texas?
El Paso, Texas, is located in the Chihuahuan Desert and experiences very little precipitation. On average, the city only sees about 10 inches of rain per year.
However, because El Paso is located in a mountainous region, the city does experience some snowfall each year.
On average, El Paso sees about 3 inches of snow per year. However, snowfall amounts can vary considerably from one year to the next. For example, the city saw nearly 20 inches of snow in 1987 but only 3.6 inches in 2009-2010.
While snow is not an everyday occurrence in El Paso, it is still something that locals have to deal with on occasion. If you are planning to visit the city during the winter months, be sure to pack your boots and a warm coat!
When Does it Snow In El Paso, Texas?
El Paso, Texas, is located in the mountains, so it does snow there occasionally. The best time to see snowfall is usually in December, January, or February. However, snowfall is not guaranteed and can happen any time from November to March.
The Climate in El Paso, Texas
El Paso, Texas, is located in the Chihuahuan Desert and has an arid climate. The city experiences little precipitation throughout the year and has close to 300 sunny days.
Despite its location, El Paso sees snowfall each year. The amount of snowfall varies from year to year, but the city typically sees around 3 inches of accumulation.
The desert climate of El Paso, Texas, means that it rarely snows. El Paso, Texas, has two main seasons: summer and winter.
Summer temperatures in El Paso, Texas, can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).
Winter temperatures in El Paso, Texas, can get as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit (-1 degree Celsius).
Things to Do in El Paso, Texas in Winter
In El Paso, Texas, winter is a great time to enjoy all the outdoor activities that the city has to offer.
From hiking and biking to picnicking and stargazing, there are plenty of things to do and plenty of places to visit in El Paso, Texas, in winter.
If you’re looking for something a little more active, El Paso is home to several great golf courses. With its mild winters, you can usually get a round or two in before the weather gets too hot.
The city also has several public parks perfect for walks or picnics. And if you’re lucky enough to catch a clear night, the stargazing in El Paso is some of the best in the country.
So whether you’re looking for things to do in El Paso, Texas, in winter, or any other season, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
How To Enjoy The Snow In El Paso?
El Paso may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of a winter wonderland, but we actually do get snowfall in the city every year.
While it may not be enough to build a snowman, it’s still enough to enjoy some winter activities.
Here are a few ways to make the most of the snow in El Paso:
Visit one of the city’s parks or nature trails. The El Paso Parks and Recreation Department offers several nature trails and parks where you can enjoy the beauty of the winter scenery.
Take a scenic drive. Snow-covered roads can make for some beautiful scenery. Head up to Cloudcroft or take a drive through Franklin Mountains State Park for some stunning views.
Sip on a hot cup of cocoa. Make your own homemade hot cocoa or visit one of El Paso’s local coffee shops for a delicious cup.
Make snow angels. Even if there’s not enough snow for snowball fights or sledding, you can still have fun making snow angels in your yard or at a park.
Conclusion
While it is rare, snow does occasionally fall in El Paso, Texas. The most recent significant snowfall occurred in December of 2015 when the city received around 8.1 inches of snow.
However, snow is not a guarantee in El Paso and the city usually only sees a few flakes each year.
If you’re hoping to see a white Christmas in El Paso, your best bet is to head up into the surrounding mountains, where snowfall is more common.
FAQs About Snow In El Paso, Texas
1. Does it snow in El Paso, Texas?
Yes, depending on the year and location. The mountains that surround El Paso can receive several feet of snow each year, while the city itself generally sees a few inches.
2. When does it usually snow in El Paso?
The first snowfall of the season usually happens in mid-November, but it can occur as early as October or as late as December. The last snowfall generally happens in early April, but flurries have been known to happen as late as May.
3. How often does it snow in El Paso?
Again, this depends on the year. Some years there may only be a couple of minor snowfalls, while other years may see multiple significant storms.
4. How much does it have to snow for schools to close?
Typically, schools will close if there are more than six inches of accumulation.
5. What are the best things to do during a snow day in El Paso?
Some of the best things to do during a snow day in El Paso include sledding, making snowmen or angels, and snowball fights!
