San Diego Snow: A Once-in-a-Blue-Moon (or Lobster) Occurrence
San Diego is famous for many things: beaches, sunshine, fish tacos...snow? Not exactly. While our winters are mild and our summers are, well, sunny and warm, catching snowflakes in San Diego is about as likely as encountering a swimsuit-clad penguin on the beach (although that would be pretty darn cute).
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| How Often Does It Snow In San Diego |
So, How Rare is Snow in San Diego?
Think finding a four-leaf clover while riding a unicorn rare. Over the past 125 years, there have only been a measly five documented snowfalls in the city itself. That's an average of one snowfall every...well, let's just say it's a very long time.
The last time snowflakes graced the ground with their icy presence in San Diego was in 2008, and even then, it was just a flurry at higher elevations. The most recent snowfall for lower-lying areas was way back in 1967. So, yeah, don't hold your breath waiting for a snow day.
But Hey, There's Always Hope (and the Mountains)!
Just because the city itself doesn't get dusted with white stuff every year doesn't mean you're out of luck. Head towards the mountains east of San Diego, and you'll find places like Julian and Palomar Mountain that get a decent amount of snowfall in the winter. Think 3,000-4,000 feet and above. Pack your snow gear, grab some hot cocoa, and enjoy a winter wonderland escape, all within driving distance of sunny San Diego!
Tip: Revisit challenging parts.
Pro Tip: Check the forecast before you head up there. Nobody likes a snowy surprise when they were expecting sunshine and apple pie (which, by the way, Julian is famous for).
Fun Fact: San Diego Almost Had a White Christmas (or Two)
Believe it or not, San Diego has come this close to having a snowy Christmas on a couple of occasions. In 1949, there was a two-day flurry recorded, and way back in 1882, there were even snowflakes on January 14th. But alas, no white Christmas miracle for San Diego (although, let's be honest, wouldn't building a snowman out of sand be kind of cool anyway?).
San Diego Snow FAQ
How to build a snowman in San Diego?
QuickTip: Skim the ending to preview key takeaways.
Use sand! San Diego snow is rare, but creativity is plentiful.
How to have a snowball fight in San Diego?
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Stock up on those fluffy white marshmallows and have an epic marshmallow fight!
QuickTip: Stop scrolling fast, start reading slow.
How to dress for the snow in San Diego?
Beach attire is always a good option. If you're heading to the mountains, pack some layers, just in case.
How to find out if it's snowing in San Diego?
QuickTip: Skim slowly, read deeply.
Check the weather forecast!
How to convince your friends it snows in San Diego?
Show them this very informative (and hilarious) article!
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