As the holiday season rolls in after Thanksgiving, many Austin residents start planning for Christmas festivities. Local KXAN meteorologists often hear the same age-old question from viewers: “Will it snow for Christmas?”
Historical Snow Records in Austin
The city’s climate history shows that there has never been any measured snow of .01 inches or greater on either Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. While a trace has occasionally been recorded, it never led to a widespread snow cover on Christmas morning. In 1929, the area did come close to snow: four days before the holiday, 5.5 inches of snow were measured in the Austin area. By Christmas Day, most of that snow had melted, leaving only a trace on the ground.
Current Forecast for Christmas Day
According to the latest outlook, Austin will experience unseasonably warm temperatures on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Most lows are expected to fall in the mid-to-upper 50s to low 60s, while highs should rise to a general range of mid-to-upper 70s. Importantly, the forecast indicates that there will be no precipitation on either day.
The Chance of Snow on Ground
Even with the warm forecast, some residents dream of a white Christmas. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides statistical data on where a minimum of one inch of snow on the ground could occur on December 25. Areas shaded in light blue to white on NOAA’s maps have the highest potential for snow, but the jet stream’s position may keep many southern regions too warm to support any snowfall.
Jet Stream and Temperature Trends
The jet stream extends from the Pacific Northwest through the Dakotas and Great Lakes into New England, influencing weather patterns across the country. Climate Central’s holiday forecast predicts temperatures much warmer than normal over much of the United States. Specifically, temperatures from the Front Range of the Rockies into Kansas and Nebraska, and the Upper Midwest, are forecast to be as much as 20° to 35° warmer than the 1991-2020 climate normals. The western and eastern parts of the country are expected to be 5° to 15° above their respective normals.
National Temperature Outlook on Christmas Morning
Even on Christmas morning, lows across much of the country are projected to range from around 40° to the low-to-mid 60s. In Austin, the two key facts are clear: there will be no precipitation, and the temperatures will be far too warm for any snow.
Snow Possibility in Alaska
While the mainland faces warm conditions, Alaska offers a different story. Snow is expected to be on the ground in Alaska on December 25, and Alaskans may even receive fresh snowfall on the day itself.
Summary for Austin Residents
- Warm temperatures with lows in the mid-50s to low 60s and highs in the mid-to-upper 70s.
- No precipitation forecasted for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
- Historical records show no measurable snow on either holiday.
- Mountains outside the city may still experience snow, but the jet stream’s position limits widespread coverage.
The holiday season in Austin is shaping up to be a warm, snow-free celebration for most residents, while those seeking a white Christmas might look toward the higher elevations or even Alaska.
Key Takeaways
- Austin will have warm Christmas weather with no expected snow.
- Historical data confirms no measurable snow on Christmas holidays.
- The jet stream and temperature trends reduce the likelihood of snow across much of the country.
- Alaska remains a potential spot for snow on December 25.
Wishing everyone a joyous and loving Merry Christmas.
