Every winter, Lubbock residents keep one eye on the sky and the other on the forecast, wondering when snow will arrive. With several recent winters featuring long dry stretches and warmer-than-average temperatures, it’s fair to ask: could Lubbock actually go an entire winter without snow?

Read More: 1970 Lubbock Tornado Tossed One of The Heaviest Items on Record

How Common Is Snow in Lubbock?

Snow in Lubbock isn’t unusual, but it also isn’t guaranteed. Most winters include at least one measurable snowfall, often tied to strong cold fronts or storm systems pushing across the South Plains. That said, snow totals can vary widely from year to year, and light or trace snowfall is far more common than major winter storms.

Weather Patterns That Influence Lubbock Snowfall

Several large-scale weather patterns determine whether Lubbock sees snow. The position of the jet stream, the availability of cold Arctic air, and moisture moving in from the Pacific or Gulf all play key roles. If storm systems track too far north or south or if cold air doesn’t line up with available moisture,  Lubbock can miss out on snow entirely. Since we are currently in a La Niña system, the winter dryness (which my skin is absolutely feeling right now) could diminish our chances.

Why a Snowless Winter Is Possible

A winter without measurable snow usually happens when temperatures stay just warm enough to turn potential snow into rain or when storm systems remain weak. Prolonged dry periods, which are not uncommon in West Texas, can also reduce snowfall chances even during colder stretches.

Read More: Devastating: A Look At Texas Hailstorms That Resulted In Death

I could not find anything definitive on a snowless winter in Lubbock. As my memory serves, we’ve always had at least a dusting or some flurries, which is the likely outcome of this winter.

What a Snow-Free Winter Would Mean for Lubbock

A winter without snow could mean fewer travel disruptions and less strain on city road crews, but it also has downsides. Snow contributes to soil moisture, which is important for agriculture and landscaping heading into spring. For many locals, snow is also part of the seasonal experience, even if it only lasts a day.

Top 10 Things To Expect In Lubbock, Texas

Gallery Credit: Nessmania