Does Houston,Texas ever get snow?

Houston is known for its warm and humid climate, and snow is a rare sight in the city.  The city barely experiences snowfall, but when it does, it’s often not significant.

Houston experiences an average of one snowfall per year with the average snowfall reaching 0.1 inches per year, according to the National Weather Service. The city has only received measurable snowfall (0.1 inches or more) on eight occasions since 1895.

Despite its rarity, snow in Houston remains a memorable event for the city’s residents, who eagerly await its arrival each year.

When does it snow in Houston?

Snowfall in Houston typically occurs between December and February, with the most significant snowfall events taking place in December. 

The majority of recorded snowfalls have occurred during the months of December and January, with a few instances in February.

The most significant snowfall in Houston’s history occurred on February 12, 1960, when the city received 20 inches of snow over a two-day period. Since then, Houston has experienced a few minor snowfalls, but most of them have been less than an inch.

While snow is a rare occurrence in Houston, it is not entirely unexpected. In fact, Houston has seen snowfall in several other years. 

Dates	Amount	Temperature	Notes
February 12-13, 1895	0.8 inches	10°F-12°C	This was the first recorded instance of snowfall in Houston. The city received a light dusting of snow, which quickly melted
December 23-24, 1929	1.5 inches	8°F-13°C	The snow stuck around for a few days due to the cold temperatures.
December 22, 1989	1.7 inches	7°F-13°C	This event caused chaos on the city’s highways and led to numerous accidents.
December 24, 2004	0.1 inches	13°F-10°C	This happened on Christmas Eve, which added to the city’s holiday spirit.
December 7, 2017	0.6 inches	11°F-12°C	This was the city’s first snowfall in nearly four years.

The last time Houston saw significant snowfall was in December 2017, when a winter storm hit the city and surrounding areas. Over four inches of snow accumulated in some parts of the city, including the northern and northwestern suburbs. 

The snow accumulation was so significant that it paralyzed the city’s transportation system, forcing schools and businesses to close for several days.So, despite the excitement that snow brings to Houston, it also brings with it some challenges. 

The city’s infrastructure and transportation systems are not designed to handle significant snow and ice accumulation, which can result in dangerous driving conditions and power outages. 

The winter storm in 2017 caused widespread disruptions, with many roads and highways becoming impassable due to the snow and ice. 

Where does it snow in Houston?

Snowfall is extremely rare in the Houston area, however, there have been certain places which have been sites to this rare occurrence. It’s important to note that the instances listed below are outliers. 

According to the National Weather Service, these are the places in Houston which have seen snow:

• Downtown Houston – December 2009: 

A winter storm on December 4th, 2009 brought snow to downtown Houston, which is extremely rare for the area. The snowfall was a result of a cold front that moved into the region, bringing freezing temperatures and precipitation. 

1 inch of snowfall was recorded in the downtown Houston area, with some areas receiving up to 3 inches. Temperatures during the snowfall were in the mid-20s to low 30s Fahrenheit (-4 to -1 Celsius).

• The Woodlands – December 2017: 

The Woodlands – December 2017: On December 8th, 2017, a winter storm brought a light dusting of snow to parts of The Woodlands area, located north of Houston. 

A trace of snowfall below 0.3 was recorded in the area, with temperatures hovering around freezing. While the snowfall was not significant, it was a rare occurrence for the region and caused excitement among residents. 

Many took to social media to share photos of their snowy surroundings and enjoy the wintry weather while it lasted.

• Katy – December 2004: 

A winter storm on December 24th, 2004 brought snow and sleet to the Katy area, which is located west of Houston. 

According to the National Weather Service, 2-3 inches of snowfall was recorded in the Katy area, with temperatures in the low to mid-20s Fahrenheit (-6 to -4 Celsius).

• Pearland – January 1940: 

On January 11th, 1940, Pearland, located south of Houston, experienced a rare snowfall. Historical accounts suggest that several inches of snowfall were recorded in the area, which was a rare event for the region.

While temperatures during the snowfall were not recorded, it is likely that they were below freezing. The snowfall provided a unique and picturesque winter landscape for residents. 

• Sugar Land – February 1895: 

Sugar Land, which is located southwest of Houston, experienced its first recorded snowfall on February 14th, 1895. 

According to historical accounts, several inches of snowfall were recorded in the area, which was considered a rare event at the time. 

Temperatures during the snowfall were not recorded, but historical data suggests that it was likely below freezing.

What can you do when it snows in Houston?

To take advantage of the rare occasion of snow in Houston, here are some things you can try out with friends and family! 

Visit the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a 155-acre nature reserve located in the heart of Houston, Texas. 

The center is dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural environment of the Houston area, while also providing educational opportunities and recreational activities for visitors of all ages.

One of the most popular things to do at the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is to go for a hike. The center has over five miles of trails that wind through a variety of different habitats, including forests, meadows, and wetlands. 

Visitors can explore the trails on their own, or they can take part in a guided nature walk with one of the center’s knowledgeable staff members.

In addition to hiking, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center also offers a variety of other outdoor activities. Visitors can go bird watching, take a canoe trip on the center’s pond, or attend a nature photography class. 

The center also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, such as guided night hikes, outdoor concerts, and holiday-themed celebrations.

For those who are interested in learning more about the natural world, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center offers a variety of educational programs and classes. 

These range from one-time workshops on topics like plant identification and wildlife tracking to multi-week courses that cover everything from gardening to sustainable living.

Finally, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a great place to simply relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. 

Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for an afternoon or spend an entire day exploring the great outdoors, the center offers a peaceful and serene setting that is sure to rejuvenate and refresh your mind and body.

Address	4501 Woodway Dr, Houston, TX, United States, Texas
Contact Information	+1 713-681-8433
Website	https://houstonarboretum.org/
Social Media	Facebook Instagram

Go Ice Skating at Discovery Green

Ice skating is a classic winter pastime, and for those living in Houston, it’s possible to experience the joy of gliding on the ice at the ice skating rink at Discovery Green, located in the heart of downtown Houston.

The ice skating rink at Discovery Green is open from mid-November to mid-January, giving locals and visitors the chance to experience a winter wonderland in the middle of the city. 

The rink is open daily, and tickets are available for purchase online and at the park. The rink is located in a beautiful setting, surrounded by trees and twinkling lights, which gives the rink a magical feel.

The ice skating rink is suitable for all ages and skill levels, and rental skates are available for those who don’t have their own. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater, the rink provides a fun and safe environment to enjoy the ice.

In addition to ice skating, Discovery Green offers a range of other activities that visitors can enjoy during their visit. There is a playground, a splash pad, and a variety of public art installations nearby. 

On some nights, the park hosts live music performances, movie screenings, and other special events.

Address	1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010, United States
Contact Information	+1 713-400-7336
Website	https://www.discoverygreen.com/
Social Media	Facebook Instagram

There are also some activities you can enjoy in the cold weather and chances of snowfall that are absolutely free. Listed below are some of our favorites!

Snow-tubing and Sledding in Houston? 

While Houston isn’t known for its snowfall you’d think it may be difficult to find places for sledding in the city. However, there are still some fun and exciting options for those looking to experience the thrill of sledding.

Below are some places that you can try out. 

Where can you go snow-tubing and sledding in Houston?

Memorial Park:
Spanning over 1,400 acres, Memorial Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Houston. During the winter months, the park’s rolling hills offer the perfect opportunity for sledding or snow tubing if snowfall occurs. 

Terry Hershey Park:
Located along the picturesque Buffalo Bayou, it offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Houston. While the park’s hills may not be steep enough for an exhilarating time, visitors can still enjoy sledding or tubing if snowfall occurs.

Cullen Park:

With over 9,000 acres of green space, Cullen Park is one of the largest parks in Houston. During the winter season, the park’s rolling hills offer the perfect backdrop for sleigh riding and other winter activities.

Gaylord in Grapevine:
Just a short drive from the city, you can find snow tubing parks in Gaylord in Grapevine that offer hours of fun for all ages. Grab a tube and zoom down the hills for an exhilarating experience.

What kind of sleds and snowtubes can I get in Houston?

For a truly special experience, gather friends and family for a day out in the snow with sleds. Below are some of the lines that can help you have a wonderful time with loved ones.

1. Radio Flyer 36″ Flexible Flyer Sled – The Radio Flyer 36″ Flexible Flyer Sled is a classic wooden sled that has been loved by generations of families. It is made from sturdy hardwood, and its flexible steel runners provide a smooth ride over the snow. The sled can accommodate up to two riders, making it perfect for families with young children. 

2. Zipfy Freestyle Mini Luge Snow Sled – The Zipfy Freestyle Mini Luge Snow Sled is an innovative sled that is designed for thrill-seekers of all ages. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and maneuver, while its unique shape allows for quick turns and spins. 

3. Paricon 54-Inch Flexible Flyer Sled – The Paricon 54-Inch Flexible Flyer Sled is a classic wooden sled that is perfect for adults and children who want to relive the nostalgia of their childhood. It features a sturdy wooden frame and flexible steel runners for a smooth ride over the snow. 

4. Sportsstuff Gizmo Inflatable Snowmobile – The Sportsstuff Gizmo Inflatable Snowmobile is a fun and unique snow tube that is designed to look like a snowmobile. It features heavy-duty construction, a comfortable mesh seat, and durable handles for easy maneuvering. 

5. GoFloats Winter Snow Tube – The GoFloats Winter Snow Tube is a high-quality snow tube that is made from premium materials and features a comfortable backrest and built-in handles. It comes in a variety of fun and festive designs, making it a great option for families or groups of friends. 

6. Airhead Classic Snow Sled – The Airhead Classic Snow Sled is a traditional snow tube that is designed for riders of all ages. It features a heavy-duty PVC construction, molded plastic handles, and a bright red color that makes it easy to spot in the snow. 

Savor the Snow with Hot Drinks

Warm up from the inside out with a hot cup of cocoa, coffee, or tea at one of Houston’s many cafes and restaurants. Take the time to relax and savor the unique atmosphere of the city during a snowfall.

Here are our some of our top recommendations for where to get your hot drinks to warm you up:

Catalina Coffee

Catalina Coffee is a popular coffee shop in Houston that serves some of the best hot drinks in the city. They offer a variety of specialty coffee drinks, including pour-over coffee, espresso, cappuccino, and latte. 

They also have a selection of teas and other beverages, as well as pastries and baked goods to accompany your drink.

Address	2201 Washington Ave, Houston, TX 77007
Contact Information	+1 713-861-8448
Website	http://www.catalinacoffee.com/
Social Media	Facebook Instagram

Tout Suite

Tout Suite is a trendy cafe in downtown Houston that is known for its delicious hot drinks and pastries. They serve a variety of coffee and tea drinks, including cappuccinos, lattes, and matcha. 

They also have a selection of hot chocolate and chai latte. Their food menu includes pastries, sandwiches, and breakfast items.

Address	2001 Commerce St #123, Houston, TX 77002
Contact Information	+1 713-227-8688
Website	https://toutsuite.co/
Social Media	Facebook Instagram

The Honeymoon Cafe and Bar

The Honeymoon Cafe and Bar is a cozy cafe located in downtown Houston that offers a selection of hot drinks and cocktails. Their coffee menu includes drip coffee, espresso, cappuccino, and latte. 

They also have a selection of teas, hot chocolate, and chai latte. In addition to drinks, they offer a variety of breakfast and lunch items, as well as charcuterie boards and small plates.

Address	300 Main St, Houston, TX 77002
Contact Information	+1 713-224-9500
Website	http://www.thehoneymoonhtx.com/
Social Media	Facebook Instagram

Snow in Houston, Texas, is a rare but exciting event. Despite the challenges it can bring, it remains a memorable experience for the city’s residents, who eagerly await the next time the white blanket of snow covers the city. 

Houstonians and visitors alike can keep an eye out for the next chance to enjoy this unique and special weather event.