In April, we typically think of blooming flowers and green vegetation, but for some regions, it can also bring heavy snowfall. Surprisingly, April is the snowiest month of the year in certain areas, particularly in the northern and central Rockies and adjacent High Plains, such as the Black Hills of South Dakota. These regions experience significant snowfall during this time, as seen in the bright pink areas on the map below. The higher elevations and unique weather patterns in these areas contribute to the heavy snowfall, with upslope winds enhancing precipitation.
Apart from these specific regions, snowfall in April is also common across the northern tier and Mountain West of the United States. Many cities experience significant snowfall during this month, with locations like Lead in South Dakota averaging 29 inches of snow in April. Other cities, including Cheyenne, Breckenridge, and Red Lodge, also see substantial snowfall during April.
In Denver, April is historically the second snowiest month after March, while in Rapid City, South Dakota, April ranks as the second snowiest as well. Across the country, April marks the average last snowfall of the season for several cities, leading to concerns about potential tree damage and power outages due to heavy, wet snow.
Chris Dolce, a senior digital meteorologist with weather.com, has been in the field for nearly 15 years, beginning his career with The Weather Channel in the early 2000s.
