Snow and thunderstorms might seem like polar opposites, but the fact of the matter is, they can actually occur at the same time! This natural phenomenon is known as “thundersnow,” and it’s surprisingly rare. It’s typically only seen a few times a year in the United States, and you can occasionally catch thundersnow in Arizona. Winter in Arizona is a magical time, and we admit it: it’s rare for winter thunderstorms in Arizona to actually occur. But when they do, know that you’re experiencing something quite special!

Thundersnow is also known as a winter thunderstorm. This is a rare event. Like a snowstorm, snow is the primary form of precipitation in thundersnow.
Wikipedia / JWIZMAN96
This natural phenomenon in Arizona occurs when a normal thunderstorm collides with a cold front. This results in heavy snowfall that has thunderstorm-like characteristics.
Very few thundersnow events are reported each year within the United States. However, Arizona is a prime candidate to experience this unusual winter weather condition.
Flickr/Bernard DUPONT
One common sight before thundersnow is cumulonimbus clouds. They'll sit especially low in the sky, distinguishing this phenomenon from a more typical storm.
Another telltale characteristic of thundersnow in Arizona is snow that appears to be falling in a sideways manner.
Flickr/t mothy
The strange effect is caused by the ever-changing airflow conditions that are quite atypical compared to regular snowstorms.

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During a thundersnow event, snowfall rates typically occur around 2-4 inches per hour. This is similar to the intensity of a heavy thunderstorm that is usually experienced in spring or summer.
Flickr/Several seconds
Even during periods of lighter wind, visibility may be greatly reduced, sometimes less than a quarter of a mile.
Since thundersnow is often just a small part of a severe winter storm or blizzard, it's not uncommon for there to be strong winds.
Flickr/NASA/NOAA GOES Project
In fact, gusts measuring above tropical storm force levels often occur.
Due to these extreme wind speeds, the temperature typically feels much colder than it actually is.
Flickr/Don Harder
Unless you're extremely well-dressed for the weather, you'll want to head inside. Frostbite has been known to set in extremely quickly.
Another grave hazard associated with thundersnow in Arizona is a particularly dangerous type of lightning.
Flickr/nick damico
This type of lightning can harbor positive polarity, as opposed to the typical negative polarity. This has an even greater destructive potential.

Check out this cool video from CNN of thundersnow in Kansas:

Have you ever seen thundersnow in Arizona in person? Winter in Arizona is such a unique time – share your favorite things about wintertime in the Grand Canyon State in the comments.

If you’re looking to do some traveling during the winter months, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared. Check out our Ultimate Winter Packing List to help you stay ready for anything Mother Nature (or bad luck) can throw at you.

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Winter In Arizona

Lisa Sammons | January 18, 2024

What is winter in Arizona like?

The Grand Canyon State is often thought of as a "snowbird" state, but if you're in our northern climes, you might experience some pretty harsh winters. It's not uncommon for winter in Arizona to have pretty harsh storms and extensive snowfall. While the entire state doesn't experience snow, it does get legitimately cold in the areas that do have winters.

What are some more natural phenomena in Arizona?

There are quite a few natural phenomena besides thundersnow in Arizona. Flash flooding is one of the biggest concerns here, and we also experience landslides and earthquakes. The Antelope Canyon flood of 1997 was a tragic event in which several tourists lost their lives during a flash flood. Antelope Canyon is gorgeous, but it can be quite dangerous.

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