Winter Storm Warnings in Flagstaff, Arizona
Perched at roughly 7,000 feet on the Colorado Plateau, Flagstaff is one of the snowiest cities in the American Southwest — a fact that surprises many visitors unfamiliar with Arizona's dramatic elevation changes. Analyzing 13 years of data from 2012 through 2024, the city averages 45.9 inches (116.5 cm) of snowfall annually, with the heaviest accumulations typically arriving in January, March, and February — in that order. Average winter overnight lows hover around 24.7°F (−4.1°C), cold enough for snow to stick and accumulate quickly once a storm moves in.
On average, Flagstaff sees roughly one heavy-snow day per year, meaning single-storm totals significant enough to disrupt travel and daily life are a real — if not constant — threat each season.
A Winter Storm Warning is issued by the National Weather Service when severe winter conditions are expected to pose serious hazards to life and property. In Flagstaff, that typically means substantial snow accumulation over a short period, often combined with wind. It's worth noting that warning thresholds are not uniform — what triggers a warning here differs from lower-elevation Arizona communities or higher-latitude states. Always rely on your local NWS forecast office for criteria specific to your exact location.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 45.9 in (116.5 cm) |
| Snowiest months | January, March, February |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 24.7°F (−4.1°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 1 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in Flagstaff within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
Flagstaff winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Flagstaff right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for Flagstaff, Arizona. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Flagstaff get winter storm warnings often?
Flagstaff sees significant snowfall in most winters, and winter storm warnings are issued in a typical season. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Flagstaff?
There is no single national trigger: warning criteria are set by each local National Weather Service office, ranging from a couple of inches of snow in areas where snow is rare up to 6 inches or more in snow-belt regions, and significant ice accumulation can warrant a warning on its own.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in Flagstaff?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from Arizona authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Phoenix, AZ
- Winter storm warning in Tucson, AZ
- Winter storm warning in Las Vegas, NV
- Winter storm warning in Albuquerque, NM
- Winter storm warning in Provo, UT
- Winter storm warning in Park City, UT
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow the National Weather Service (NWS) criteria; thresholds vary by region.