The Natural Phenomenon In Arizona That Only Happens During Wintertime

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.

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.

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.

The strange effect is caused by the ever-changing airflow conditions that are quite atypical compared to regular snowstorms.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5S21BjHLog

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.