what countries snow in december

Flare Clodier Vamd

3 min read

·

03-12-2024

6

0

Share

Where the Snow Falls in December: A Global Guide

December's arrival often brings visions of a snowy wonderland. But where exactly on Earth can you expect a dusting, a flurry, or a full-blown blizzard? This article explores which countries typically experience snowfall in December, drawing upon climatological data and insights. While specific snowfall amounts vary year to year depending on microclimates and weather patterns, we can identify regions with a high probability of snowy December days.

Note: This information is based on general climatological trends. Actual snowfall in any given year can vary significantly due to unpredictable weather patterns. Always check local weather forecasts before traveling.

High Probability of Snowfall in December:

Several regions consistently see snowfall in December. These include:

• Northern Hemisphere Countries: This is the most obvious location for December snow. Countries with significant portions in high latitudes, and/or high altitudes, will experience snowfall.

  • Canada: Much of Canada, especially provinces like Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Quebec, experiences significant snowfall in December. The Rocky Mountains receive particularly heavy snowfall. (While specific snowfall data isn't readily available from a single ScienceDirect source for the entirety of Canada, numerous studies on regional snowpack and climate modeling support this assertion).

  • United States: States in the northern and mountainous regions, including Alaska, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, Idaho, and parts of the northeast, experience substantial snowfall. The Sierra Nevada and Appalachian mountain ranges are particularly prone to heavy snow accumulation. (Again, this is based on widely available climatological data and not a specific ScienceDirect article).

  • Russia: Siberia and other northern regions of Russia experience extremely heavy snowfall in December. The vastness of the country means conditions vary greatly, but significant snow is expected in large parts. (Similar to the above, specific studies on Russian snowfall are numerous but not easily consolidated into a single ScienceDirect reference).

  • Scandinavia (Norway, Sweden, Finland): These countries, situated well within the Arctic Circle's influence, experience consistent snowfall in December, particularly in mountainous regions and the northern parts of each country. (General climatological data confirms this).

  • Central Asia (e.g., parts of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan): High altitude regions in these countries will have heavy snowfalls.

• Southern Hemisphere Countries (at higher altitudes): While December is summer in the Southern Hemisphere, mountainous regions at higher altitudes can still experience snowfall.

  • Parts of Argentina and Chile: The Andes Mountains running through these countries experience snowfall in December, particularly at higher elevations. (Again, general climatological knowledge, supported by numerous regional studies which are not easily compiled into a single ScienceDirect source).

  • New Zealand (South Island): The Southern Alps of New Zealand's South Island may experience snowfall at higher elevations in December, although this is less consistent than in the Northern Hemisphere. (General knowledge and publicly available meteorological data.)

Less Predictable Snowfall:

Some areas might experience occasional snowfall in December, but it's less frequent or reliable:

• Higher elevations in certain European countries: Parts of the Alps in countries like Austria, Switzerland, France, and Italy will receive snow, but lower-lying areas might see only rain or little to no snow.

• High-altitude areas in other countries: Other regions with high-altitude ranges might occasionally experience December snowfall but this depends heavily on the year and specific location.

Accessing More Specific Information:

For precise and up-to-date snowfall predictions, it is crucial to consult local meteorological services and weather forecasts for the specific region you are interested in. Websites and apps providing hyperlocal weather information will offer the most reliable information closer to your travel dates.

Conclusion:

While many countries experience snowfall in December, the amount and likelihood vary significantly based on geography and altitude. Understanding these general trends allows for better travel planning and appreciation of the diverse winter landscapes our planet offers. Remember to always check specific weather forecasts before any winter travel plans!