Winter in Oklahoma brings a mix of cold temperatures and occasional snowfall.
On average, Oklahoma experiences around 7.6 inches of snow each year, with snowfall days totaling about 5.6 annually.
While snow is seen almost every winter, the highest amounts typically occur between December and February.
The frequency and amount of snowfall can vary across the state.
For instance, the Oklahoma Panhandle records the highest totals, averaging 20-30 inches of snow per year.
Areas like Oklahoma City, by contrast, generally see about 6-8 inches of snow annually.
Northwestern Oklahoma can even see heavy snowfall at least once or twice a year.
Significant snow events have been recorded as early as October and as late as May, with peak snowfall usually happening in January.
Interested in how often your area gets snow or planning for winter activities? Keep reading to learn more about Oklahoma’s winter weather patterns.
Climatic Factors Influencing Snowfall in Oklahoma
Oklahoma sees diverse climatic factors impacting its snowfall.
Geographic diversity and seasonal weather patterns are key influences on when and where snow occurs.
Geographic Diversity and Snowfall Distribution
Oklahoma’s geography significantly affects snowfall amounts.
The panhandle region, located in northwestern Oklahoma, typically receives the most snow due to its higher elevation and closer proximity to cold air masses. Cities like Buffalo can experience notable snowfall events.
Conversely, central and southern parts such as Oklahoma City and northern areas receive less snow, largely due to warmer temperatures influenced by the Gulf of Mexico.
This region experiences a humid subtropical climate (Cfa), which leads to fewer and lighter snowfalls.
In areas like the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in western Oklahoma, snowfall is influenced by local topography. Depending on terrain, these regions may see varied snow distribution.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Snowfall in Oklahoma predominantly occurs during the winter months, with January being the coldest month.
Average temperatures in January range from highs of 50 degrees Fahrenheit to lows around 29 degrees Fahrenheit.
Snowfall accumulation tends to peak during this month due to the low temperatures.
March marks the transition into spring, which often sees decreasing snowfall.
The changing seasonal weather patterns and temperature swings contribute to variability in snowfall amounts during the late winter and early spring months.
Articles on temperature can offer more insights on the temperature fluctuations and their effects.
These patterns greatly influence both the frequency and distribution of snow across the state, with more significant snowfall in the north and west compared to the central and southern areas.
Historical Snowfall Events and Trends
Examining historical snowfall events reveals significant winter storms and changes in snowfall patterns over time.
Oklahoma’s winter storms have impacted daily life and offer insights into seasonal shifts.
Notable Winter Storms
Oklahoma has experienced significant winter storms that left lasting impacts.
Between January 1951 and April 2001, 225 heavy snow events hit the state.
For instance, northwestern Oklahoma typically sees heavy snowfall 1-2 times each year.
In 2019, Oklahoma City saw a major event where over half a foot of snow fell in a single day.
One memorable storm took place in February 2011, bringing widespread snowfall that exceeded 12 inches in some areas.
This storm affected cities like Tulsa and Oklahoma City, causing school closures and traffic hindrances.
Snowfall Records and Changes
Snowfall records in Oklahoma have shown varied patterns.
Oklahoma City’s extreme daily snowfall reports track the heaviest snowfalls each year, highlighting trends and peak events.
January and February are typically the snowiest months, although significant events can occur in December and March as well.
Changes in snowfall over time are evident.
From seasonal fluctuations to year-to-year variations, the state’s snowfall patterns depict different trends.
For example, there has been an observed increase in heavy snow events in recent decades, possibly linked to broader climate shifts.
These changes influence winter storm preparedness and urban planning in cities like Tulsa and Oklahoma City.
Accurate historical records help predict future trends and prepare for expected snowfall, impacting the region’s readiness for winter storms.