Salt Lake City, also known as The Crossroads of the West, is Utah’s capital and most populous city. The city is within a larger metropolis of an extensive urban and suburban expansion stretched along the segment of the Wasatch Front and has a population of about 2.6 million. Salt Lake City has an area of approximately 110.81 square miles (286.99 square kilometres) and is perched at an elevation of about 4,226 feet (1,288 meters) above sea level. But does it snow in Salt Lake City?
The climate in Salt Lake City is majorly cold semi-arid. However, a humid continental climate and a Mediterranean climate characterized by dry and hot summers with cold and snowy winters border the city. As such, snowfall is a common sight in the city, especially during the winter months.
When does it snow in Salt Lake City?
Snowfall in Salt Lake City is prevalent in the winter months and runs from November through to April. The extended winter makes the city an ideal target for winter sports enthusiasts.
Snowfall in November
November marks the onset of winter in Salt Lake City, and temperatures usually plummet drastically from the previous month’s readings. During the month, the city records temperatures ranging from highs of 49 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) to lows of 31 degrees Fahrenheit (-1 degrees Celsius). An average snowfall of 7.6 inches (193.04 millimetres) is recorded in the city after four snowfall days.
Snowfall in December
In December, winter tightens its grip across the city. Temperatures dip further, often cracking the zero mark with average highs of 38 degrees Fahrenheit (3 degrees Celsius) and lows of around 23 degrees Fahrenheit (-5 degrees Celsius) being recorded across the city. The chilly conditions lead to an increase in the amount of snowfall in the city. Salt Lake City records 13.2 inches (335.28 millimetres) of snow throughout the month after eight snowfall days.
Snowfall in January
January is the coldest month in Salt Lake City and holds the record for the snowiest month in the city’s history, a staggering 117.3 inches (2979.4 mm) recorded in the 1951-52 winter season. Average temperatures in the city range between highs of 37 degrees Fahrenheit (3 degrees Celsius) and extreme lows of about 22 degrees Fahrenheit (-6 degrees Celsius). The average snowfall is approximately 12.5 inches (317.5 millimetres) after nine snowfall days.
Snowfall in February
February is somewhat mild compared to the previous two months. Temperatures are still low, often below the freezing point, but begin to rise slightly. The average temperature fluctuates between highs of 43 degrees Fahrenheit (6 degrees Celsius) and lows of 25 degrees Fahrenheit (-4 degrees Celsius). February receives a substantial snowfall and records 10.7 inches (271.78 millimetres) of snowfall after six snowfall days.
Snowfall in March
By March, temperatures are mildly cold and often tolerable. Temperatures vary between highs of 54 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius) and average lows of 34 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius). An average of 6.5 inches (165.1millimetres) falls in March in about four snowfall days.
Snowfall in April
April usually signifies the end of winter, ushering in spring in Salt Lake City. Average temperatures recording vary between highs of 62 degrees Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celsius) and lows of 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius). The temperatures are bearable; however, snow is still common this month. An average of 4 inches (101.6 millimetres) of snow falls in around two snowfall days in April.
Where does it snow in Salt Lake City?
Snow falls indiscriminately across all parts of the city. Despite the climate in most of the city being semi-arid, The Great Salt Lake contributes to most precipitation. The lake effect enhances rain summer thunderstorms and produces lake-effect snow, which creates a lot of snow.
Ski resorts in Salt Lake City.
The city has established a thriving tourist industry based primarily on skiing and outdoor recreation. It even hosted the 2002 winter Olympics further underlining itself as a significant attraction for winter sports enthusiasts.
Alta Ski Area
Alta is one of the earliest ski areas in America with challenging terrains. The resort has six ski lifts and more than 116 trails subdivided into 15% beginner slopes, 30% intermediate slopes and 55% advanced slopes. During winter, the ski resort records a snow accumulation of up to 545 inches, making it a haven for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Other exquisite resorts in and around Salt Lake City include the Brighton Resort, Snowbird, and Solitude Mountain Resort.
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