Columbus, Ohio is located in the midwestern region of the United States, and its weather is influenced by its location between the Appalachian Mountains to the east and the Great Plains to the west. The city has a humid continental climate, which means that it experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers and cold winters. December is one of the coldest months of the year, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
When it comes to snow in Columbus, Ohio in December, the answer is, it depends. Over the years, the city has seen a wide range of snowfall amounts in December, with some years experiencing heavy snowfall while other years see very little or no snow at all.
According to the National Weather Service, the average snowfall in Columbus, Ohio during December is about 5.5 inches. However, there have been years such as December 2010, when the city received a record-breaking 20 inches of snow in just one storm. Other years, such as December 2015, saw only a trace of snowfall.
Factors such as the jet stream pattern, frontal boundaries, and lake-effect snow from Lake Erie can all play a role in determining the amount of snowfall that occurs in Columbus in December. Additionally, the city’s location and topography make it more susceptible to lake-effect snow than other cities in the region.
Despite the uncertainty of snowfall in Columbus, Ohio in December, the city is prepared for winter weather. The city government and local businesses have snow removal plans in place to keep roads and sidewalks clear and safe for residents and visitors. Additionally, residents know to dress warmly and take precautions when driving in winter weather.
In conclusion, while the amount of snowfall in Columbus, Ohio during December can vary from year to year, you should always be prepared for winter weather when visiting or living in the city. Whether it snows heavily or not at all, the city’s beauty and charm remain, so embrace the season and enjoy all that Columbus has to offer.
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How often does it snow in Columbus, Ohio in the month of December?
Columbus, Ohio, the state capital, experiences cold, snowy winters, with December being one of the coldest months of the year. Snowfall in December varies from year to year, and it can be difficult to predict the amount of snowfall that Columbus will experience in any given year. However, based on the historical data, the city receives an average of 6.8 inches of snow in December.
While snow is expected in December, it is not always guaranteed. Sometimes, Columbus experiences a dry December without any snowfall. However, there have been years when the city has experienced significant snowstorms, resulting in several inches of snow accumulation. Any amount of snowfall can impact the city’s transportation and daily activities, including school closures, delayed flights, and slippery roads. Visitors and residents of Columbus should be prepared for the possibility of snow during their travels or daily routines in December.
Are there any specific areas in Columbus that are more likely to receive snow in December?
As the capital city of Ohio, Columbus, experiences a diverse range of weather patterns throughout the year. In December, the city may see occasional snowfall but is not known for heavy snowfall. However, there are specific areas in Columbus that are more likely to receive snow than others. These areas include the northern and western suburbs of Columbus, such as Dublin, Powell, and Delaware. The proximity of these areas to Lake Erie, which experiences lake-effect snow, makes them more likely to receive snow in December.
Another factor that affects the amount of snowfall in Columbus is the city’s elevation. Areas in the city with higher elevations, such as the neighborhoods of Clintonville and Worthington, are more likely to see snowfall than downtown Columbus or areas closer to the Scioto River. Additionally, the areas that receive the most snowfall tend to be those with larger tree canopies, which retain more snow.
Overall, while Columbus may not be known for heavy snowfall in December, residents and visitors should keep an eye on the northern and western suburbs for possible snow events. Additionally, neighborhoods with higher elevations and larger tree canopies may also experience more snowfall than other areas of the city.
What are the average snowfall amounts in Columbus, Ohio during the month of December?
During the month of December, Columbus, Ohio typically experiences total snowfall amounts ranging from 1 to 6 inches. This range can vary greatly from year to year and is heavily dependent on weather patterns and temperature trends. According to historical data, the snowiest December on record in Columbus occurred in 2004 when over 21 inches of snow fell throughout the month. On the other hand, the least snowy December on record in Columbus was in 2015 when only 0.2 inches of snow was recorded for the entire month.
It is worth noting that while Columbus may not receive as much snow as other cities in the northern United States, the snowfall can still have a significant impact on daily life in the city. Snow and ice on roads can make commuting and driving more difficult, while accumulation on walkways and outdoor stairs can increase the risk of slips and falls. It is important for residents and visitors to stay up-to-date on weather forecasts and take necessary precautions during snowy weather conditions.
What is the history of snowfall in Columbus, Ohio during the month of December in recent years?
The history of snowfall in Columbus, Ohio during the month of December has been varied in recent years. The city typically experiences an average of 6.5 inches of snow in December, with the occasional snowstorm bringing significantly more. However, the amount of snowfall can vary widely from year to year.
In 2019, Columbus experienced a relatively mild December, with only 1.8 inches of snow throughout the month. This was a stark contrast to the previous year, when the city saw a record-breaking 20.4 inches of snow in December 2018. The year before that, in 2017, Columbus received only 2.2 inches of snow during the month of December.
The fluctuation in snowfall can be attributed to a number of factors, including weather patterns and climate change. However, with an average temperature of 33°F and the potential for significant snowstorms, residents of Columbus should always be prepared for winter weather during the month of December.
Are there any winter sports or activities available in Columbus, Ohio for those who enjoy snow and cold weather?
While Columbus, Ohio may not have mountains or heavy snowfalls like other winter destinations, there are still plenty of winter sports and activities available for those who enjoy the cold weather. One popular option is ice skating, with several outdoor rinks open during the winter months. The downtown Bicentennial Park features a large outdoor rink with stunning views of the Columbus skyline, while the indoor Chiller Ice Rink offers a year-round skating experience.
For those looking for a more adrenaline-fueled activity, snowmobiling is also available in Columbus. The Ohio snowmobiling association maintains several trails throughout the state, with a few located within a short drive from Columbus. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are also options for those who enjoy exploring the outdoors in the winter months. The Metro Parks offer several snowshoeing trails, as well as opportunities to rent equipment for those who do not have their own. The Franklin County Metro Parks System also offers guided cross-country skiing tours throughout the winter season.
Overall, while Columbus may not be known as a winter sports destination, there are still plenty of options available for those who enjoy the snow and cold weather. From ice skating to snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the winter months in Columbus.
