ROCHESTER, N.Y. – As we move deeper into October, signs of the winter season are beginning to emerge, especially across the western half of the country. The first significant snowfall of the season is being reported across the higher elevations of California, Montana, Idaho, and Washington.
In California, areas above 7,000 feet have already received several feet of snow, with some locations seeing enough accumulation to prompt road closures and chain requirements, particularly along mountain passes such as Donner Pass. This marks the beginning of what is commonly referred to as “elevation snow.” This is snowfall that occurs at higher altitudes where temperatures are lower.
Snowfall typically begins in the mountains because temperature decreases with elevation. On average, the temperature drops about 3.5 degrees Fahrenheit for every 1,000 feet of elevation gained. As a result, higher elevations are more likely to see snow while lower elevations experience rain.
While there’s nothing in the immediate forecast for our area, it is only a matter of time before winter arrives here as well. Do you remember where you left the snow shovel from last winter?
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