Arizona SNOW REPORT
March 19 2024
Arizona's snowfall enthusiasts can expect varying conditions across the state, with no significant snowfall forecasted in most locations over the next five days. Baker Butte Smt, at 7700 feet, boasts the state's deepest snowpack at 53 inches, but no new snow is anticipated shortly. Similarly, Snowslide Canyon, at 9730 feet, currently has a substantial 60 inches of snowpack depth but also no snowfall expected in the immediate forecast. Snowpack depths are generally lower at other monitored sites, with some areas such as Chalender and White Horse Lake showing minimal snow depth and negative snowfall in the last 24 hours, indicating melting.
For those looking for fresh powder, Maverick Fork and Mormon Mtn Summit are the places to watch, with recent significant snowfall of 32 inches and 6 inches respectively, and a modest forecast of new snow (3 inches at Maverick Fork and 2 inches at Mormon Mtn Summit) anticipated. ...
Arizona's snowfall enthusiasts can expect varying conditions across the state, with no significant snowfall forecasted in most locations over the next five days. Baker Butte Smt, at 7700 feet, boasts the state's deepest snowpack at 53 inches, but no new snow is anticipated shortly. Similarly, Snowslide Canyon, at 9730 feet, currently has a substantial 60 inches of snowpack depth but also no snowfall expected in the immediate forecast. Snowpack depths are generally lower at other monitored sites, with some areas such as Chalender and White Horse Lake showing minimal snow depth and negative snowfall in the last 24 hours, indicating melting.
For those looking for fresh powder, Maverick Fork and Mormon Mtn Summit are the places to watch, with recent significant snowfall of 32 inches and 6 inches respectively, and a modest forecast of new snow (3 inches at Maverick Fork and 2 inches at Mormon Mtn Summit) anticipated. In contrast, sites like Fort Valley and Hannagan Meadows show decreases in snow depth, signaling a trend towards melting as the season progresses. While the 5-day forecast suggests minimal snow accumulation, some higher elevations such as Nohrsc Mormon Mtn Summit and Nohrsc Coronado Trail are exceptions, with forecasts predicting up to 4 inches of fresh snow.
With this data in mind, ski resorts such as Arizona Snowbowl near Flagstaff may experience a quieter period with limited fresh snowfall, while those seeking out backcountry opportunities should monitor forecasts closely for higher elevation areas where snowpack remains substantial. Towns like Flagstaff and Alpine should not expect significant impacts from snowfall in the coming days, making it a good period for winter enthusiasts to enjoy the existing snowpack without the disruption of new storms.
Snowpack conditions in Arizona vary across different mountain ranges, contributing to crucial water resources in the state. The San Francisco Peaks, located in northern Arizona, often have the highest snow accumulation. The watershed formed by the peaks feeds into the Verde and Salt rivers, which provide water for agriculture and communities. The White Mountains in eastern Arizona also contribute significantly to the state's snowpack, feeding the Little Colorado River watershed. Winter climate in Arizona is typically mild, with occasional storms bringing snow to higher elevations. Interestingly, Arizona's snowfall has been studied for centuries, with Native American tribes recording snowfall patterns and early European settlers conducting scientific observations. Today, snow science plays a vital role in predicting water availability and managing water resources in the arid state. Multiple sources, including the National Weather Service and the Arizona Department of Water Resources, can provide more detailed and up-to-date information.