The history behind snowy Novembers in the Twin Tiers

The History Behind Snowy Novembers in the Twin Tiers

The Twin Tiers are preparing for a rare sight — snowfall during Thanksgiving week. November snow is uncommon for this region, where the month usually brings a mix of chilly rain and occasional flurries rather than measurable accumulation.

Meteorologists note that significant November snowfalls have occurred only a handful of times over the past decades. Most of these events were tied to strong cold air outbreaks following early-season storms that swept across the Great Lakes.

Past Events and Weather Patterns

Historical data shows that when November does deliver heavy snow to the Twin Tiers, it often happens near the end of the month.

"The pattern usually shifts just enough by Thanksgiving to allow cold Canadian air to push south, producing snow showers and sometimes a few inches on the ground," local weather experts explain.

For example, in 2014, a sharp cold front brought measurable snow just before the holiday. Earlier instances, such as in 1996 and 1977, followed similar patterns, signaling a sudden early arrival of winter.

Forecast Outlook

This year’s forecast suggests another unusual Thanksgiving week, as colder-than-average air masses are expected to move into the area. If conditions align, residents could see a brief but notable snowfall that recalls some of those earlier Novembers.

Seasonal Context

Typically, the region’s snowiest months are January and February, with November serving as the transitional period from autumn to winter. The occasional early snow, while rare, offers a preview of the harsher months ahead.

"When it snows in November here, it often signals that winter’s grip is not far behind," one meteorologist commented.

Author's summary:
Occasional November snowfalls in the Twin Tiers are rare but historically mark an early start to winter, often caused by shifts in cold air and storm patterns late in the month.

WENY News — 2025-11-27