Does It Snow In San Bernardino?

San Bernardino, California, is located in the Inland Empire region of southern California. The city is approximately 60 miles east of Los Angeles. The Inland Empire is a large metropolitan area that includes several cities and towns.

The climate in San Bernardino is semi-arid, with hot summers and mild winters. The average summer temperature is in the mid-80s, while the average winter temperature is in the mid-50s.

However, temperatures can occasionally dip into the 30s and 40s during the winter months. But does it snow in San Bernardino?

Does it snow in San Bernardino?
Inland Empire Valley, San Bernardino, California, USA

Does it Snow in San Bernardino?

It Can Snow in San Bernardino but is extremely rare. San Bernardino does not get a lot of snowfall each year. In fact, the city only averages about 0.1 inches of snow per year.

In fact, the winter months in San Bernardino last between December and February, out of which February has more chances to experience Snow, where it receives 0.1 inches of annual snowfall.

If you’re hoping to see some snowfall while you’re visiting San Bernardino, then you might be out of luck, as there’s no guarantee that you’ll see any snowfall since it doesn’t happen often.

How Often Does it Snow in San Bernardino?

The Snow Covered Anderson Peak Mountain in San Bernardino County, California, USA | Does it snow in San Bernardino?
The Snow Covered Anderson Peak Mountain in San Bernardino County, California, USA

San Bernardino is located in southern California, at the base of the San Bernardino Mountains. 

The area gets an average of 10 to 15 inches of rain each year, but snowfall is extremely rare. 

The answer to this question largely depends on what elevation you are measuring the snowfall at. 

The San Bernardino Mountains, which rise up to 11,503 feet above sea level, generally see anywhere from 20-60 inches of snowfall each year. 

The city of San Bernardino itself, which has an elevation of 1,624 feet, sees an average of only 0.1 inches of snowfall per year.

Most years, the city rarely sees only a dusting of snow or no snow at all. However, every few years, San Bernardino gets hit with a major winter storm that brings several inches of snow.

When Does it Snow in San Bernardino?

San Gorgonio Mountain, San Bernardino, California, USA | Does it snow in San Bernardino?
San Gorgonio Mountain, San Bernardino, California, USA

San Bernardino snow doesn’t last long when it does fall, so residents have to make the most of it! 

The snowy months are usually December, January, and February, but snow has been known to fall as early as November and as late as March. 

The duration of snowfall is also relatively short, with most storms only lasting a day or two before melting away.

The Weather in San Bernardino

San Bernardino’s climate is semi-arid climate, which means that it doesn’t rain very often. The city experiences hot summers and cold winters. 

The average high temperature in July is 92 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low temperature in January is 34 degrees Fahrenheit.

Precipitation is low throughout the year, but San Bernardino occasionally sees snowfall. 

Snow usually falls in the mountains surrounding the city, but it has been known to fall in the city itself on rare occasions.

Areal View of San Gorgonio Mountain, San Bernardino, California, USA
San Gorgonio Mountain, San Bernardino, California, USA

Things to Do in San Bernardino in Winter

San Bernardino sees very little snowfall each year, averaging only about 0.1 inches.

However, the city is only an hour’s drive from some of Southern California’s best ski resorts, such as Big Bear Mountain Resort and Snow Summit. 

So, if you’re looking for things to do in San Bernardino during winter, here are some popular options:

  1. Ski or snowboard at one of the nearby resorts
  2. Take a scenic drive through the San Bernardino Mountains
  3. Visit the Snow Park Alpine Slide
  4. Explore the Mountain History Museum
  5. Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa at one of the local cafes

The Conclusion

After looking at various data, it appears that San Bernardino does not get enough snowfall to warrant a designation as a “snowy” city. 

In fact, the closest city to San Bernardino that would fit that description is Big Bear Lake, which is about an hour away. 

Therefore, it seems safe to say that San Bernardino is not a good place to go if you’re looking for a snow-filled winter vacation.

FAQs About Snow In San Bernardino

Does it Ever Snow in San Bernardino?

It can, but it’s rare. The last measurable snowfall in the city was in January 2008, when 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) fell.

How Often Does it Snow in San Bernardino?

Snow is a very rare event in San Bernardino. The city typically sees one measurable snowfall every five to 10 years.

What Is the Average Snowfall in San Bernardino?

The average snowfall for the city is just 0.1 inches (0.3 cm). However, when it does snow, accumulation can range from a trace to several inches.

When Is the Best Time to see Snow in San Bernardino?

The best time to see snow in San Bernardino is typically from December through February. However, as mentioned above, snow is a very rare event and can occur any time of year.