Snow play on a snow day! Pets, kids, parents and grandparents out and about on Tucson's fresh March powder. If you're wondering where all this unusual white stuff is coming from, see what meteorologists have to say .
Tucsonans woke up to an unusual winter scene Thursday. Some observed that it can be common to receive one rare snow day every couple years, but to wake up to snow multiple times in a single winter? That has people from all over Southern Arizona scratching heads with one hand, but still building snowmen with another.
Across the west, other states are experiencing a similarly snowy winter. Portland, Oregon received nearly a foot of snow in a single day in what proved to be its second-snowiest day in history. Mountainous areas of California experienced nearly unprecedented snowfall accumulations - more than 40 feet since the start of the season. At the airport in Flagstaff, Arizona, 11.6 feet have fallen this season, second only to the winter of 1948-49. Even Phoenix suburbs woke up on Thursday to a dusting of snow that covered cactuses and lush golf courses. Locally in Tucson, the National Weather Service reported 1.5 inches of seasonal snowfall—more than some east coast cities this year. SNOW way! Tucson has had more snow than Washington D.C and Philadelphia this season. How do you feel about this?!? @NWS_BaltWash @NWS_MountHolly #azwx #pawx #dcwx pic.twitter.com/giwbOO7IsY“This rain and snow bucked the trend and it’s highly unexpected,” said Ryan Maue, a meteorologist and former NOAA chief scientist. “It’s like once-in-a-generation.”The current La Niña pattern does have an influence on global weather, but Maue said that is only one factor. Bianca Feldkircher, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service, said a persistent blocking pattern over the Pacific Ocean plus cold air migrating south from the Arctic have created the conditions for widespread snowfall along the West Coast. “Not only were you getting significant snowfall in areas that already see snow, you were also seeing snowfall on lower elevations in Southern California, which is super rare,” said Feldkircher. For example, the forecast on March 1 warned of snowfall for parts of Phoenix, which Feldkircher said is “super unusual” for this time of year. And last week, Portland saw abnormally high snowfall rates and recorded nearly 11 inches — the second snowiest day in the city’s history. Whether you live here or are just visiting, chances are you took some time today to play in, snap some pictures or just enjoy the scenic fresh snowfall here in the Sonoran Desert. @RyanFishTV is out in Oracle today, and will have more on Tucson's snow day tonight at 5 & 6 p.m. pic.twitter.com/lCn9ADGbad — KGUN 9 On Your Side March 2, 2023 With respect to human-induced climate change, meteorologists say it's challenging to nail down what part it is playing in the West Coast's peculiar winter season. But increasingly extreme weather is expected as global temperatures rise. “Heat produces moisture, moisture produces storms, and heat and moisture bind to produce even more severe storms,” Feldkircher said. Forecasting technology keeps getting better. So much better, it may even soon be able to forecast extreme events with higher accuracy. “In the near future, I do not think climate will cause issues with our weather forecasting capabilities,” said Maue. Snowy scenes around TUS this morning ❄️from signs and rooftops to airfield equipment and far off mountains, this stuff looks great… but let’s not make a habit out of it 🥶🌵✈️ #azwx #tucson #snowday pic.twitter.com/kymXPZac9B — Tucson Airport March 2, 2023 Although many regions struggled with the challenging winter conditions, some are welcoming the much-needed moisture. The recent precipitation is a blessing for ameliorating the drought that has persisted in the Southwest. California tends to go from rags to riches, bounty to poverty when it comes to rain, Maue said."That’s why from a policy point of view, you need to be able to have water regulations, reservoirs, and water supplies that can last during multi-year droughts.”
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Another Round Of Winter Weather Dropped Snow From Coast to CoastThe lights are still off for customers across the country, more snow in California, and the first real snowfall over NYC.
Read more »
Red tide is becoming a major issue on Florida’s west coastBeaches across parts of the west coast of Florida are dealing with a significant issue. It’s called red tide, and it can completely ruin a day of surf and sun.
Read more »
Business awards earned in Tucson and Southern ArizonaHonors earned by Southern Arizona businesses, leaders, organizations.
Read more »
Tucson Wildlife Center is Southern Arizona's only wildlife rescue hospitalIt's March 1, and that means PatParrisTV is introducing this month's GivingProject. The Tucson Wildlife Center has been rescuing, rehabbing and releasing wildlife for the past 25 years. Find out how to support their work
Read more »
Tony Shiu's West Coast Lion Dance troupe shares traditional customs and cultureTony Shiu's West Coast Lion Dance troupe brings traditional lion dancing to the Bay Area.
Read more »
14 charts that show jobs, unemployment and workforce data for Tucson and ArizonaIs our employment picture getting better or worse? See recent changes in local jobs, unemployment, earnings and more in these regularly updated charts and maps.
Read more »