BILLINGS, MT — Snow is in the forecast for Montana this weekend, just days after record highs climbed into the 80s. The timing lines up closely with Billings’ typical first snow date of October 11. Across the country, the median date of the first measurable snow varies widely, from October in the northern Rockies to rarely or never along the Gulf Coast. The dates are based on the first snowfall of at least 0.1 inch, using records from 1991 to 2020.
Billings Typically Sees First Snow Around October 11
Billings usually records its first measurable snow around October 11, making it one of the earliest major cities on the list. This weekend’s snow forecast falls almost exactly in line with that average.
The quick shift from record warmth in the 80s to snow highlights how fast fall weather can change in Montana. Much of Montana, Wyoming, the Dakotas, and Colorado typically see first snow in October.
Denver, Salt Lake City, and Minneapolis Follow in Late Fall
Denver typically sees its first measurable snow around October 28. Salt Lake City follows around November 5, while Minneapolis usually gets its first snow near November 7.
Large parts of the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and interior West typically see first snow during the first half of November. Higher elevations across the West can see snow even earlier.
Chicago, Kansas City, and New York See First Snow Later
Chicago’s first measurable snow typically falls around November 16. Kansas City usually waits until around December 3, while New York City typically sees its first snow near December 9.
Much of the Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic falls in the late November to mid-December window. Seattle, despite its northern location, usually does not see measurable snow until around December 18.
Southern Cities Wait Until Winter or Rarely See Snow
Nashville typically records its first snow around December 29. Farther south, Atlanta usually waits until around February 1, and Dallas until around February 5.
Some areas only see measurable snow in some winters, including parts of the Carolinas and the Deep South. Houston, Florida, south Texas, and much of coastal and southern California rarely see measurable snow at all.
Northern Residents Should Prepare for Winter Weather Early
Residents across Montana and the northern Rockies should prepare for snow and colder temperatures this weekend. Roads may become slick, especially at higher elevations and during overnight hours.
Elsewhere, the first snow is still weeks or months away for most of the country. Knowing the typical first snow date can help residents plan ahead for winter driving and home preparations.
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