MA Snowfall Stats: Averages, Records, & More [Updated!]

Mina Boehm 09 May 2025

Ever wonder if you're dreaming of a white Christmas in the right state? Massachusetts boasts a dramatic range in snowfall, making it a fascinating case study in regional weather patterns.

The Bay State's reputation for harsh winters is well-earned, but the reality of snowfall varies dramatically depending on location. Forget a one-size-fits-all forecast; understanding Massachusetts snowfall requires a closer look at its diverse geography and microclimates. From coastal regions brushed by milder air to the higher elevations of the west, the amount of snow that accumulates each winter tells a complex story.

Attribute	Details
State	Massachusetts
Key Topic	Average Snowfall in Massachusetts
Geographic Variation	Coastal vs. Western Regions
Data Sources	NOAA, DCR Precipitation Data
Reference Link	National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI)

Consider the stark contrast: along the immediate coastline, average snowfall struggles to reach even a foot, hovering around 10.5 inches. But venture westward, and you'll find yourself in a different snow globe entirely. The western half of Massachusetts, embracing the Berkshire Mountains and its attendant elevations, sees a deluge, averaging roughly 70 inches of snow each year. Thats nearly seven times the coastal accumulation!

These discrepancies aren't accidental. Theyre a direct result of elevation, proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, and the prevailing wind patterns that sweep across the state. The ocean's influence moderates temperatures along the coast, leading to more rain and less snow, while the higher altitudes in the west experience colder temperatures, ideal for snow formation and preservation.

To gain a deeper understanding, meteorological agencies, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), meticulously collect and analyze precipitation data. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) also plays a vital role, utilizing precipitation data to calculate average precipitation statistics within the state's seven designated drought regions. This data is crucial for water resource management, infrastructure planning, and understanding the overall impact of climate on the region.

Looking back at recent history, monthly snow totals are typically averaged over a ten-year period. For instance, many current figures reflect averages calculated from 2010 to 2019, providing a reliable baseline for comparison. However, individual years can deviate significantly from these averages, influenced by specific weather events and broader climate trends.

While overall seasonal averages paint a general picture, it's the exceptional events that often capture our attention. Consider Allentown, Pennsylvania, a location along the East Coast. During a particular winter season, this city recorded 25.2 inches of snowfall, exceeding its seasonal average. Such deviations highlight the unpredictability of winter weather and the potential for significant snowfall even in areas not typically known for excessive accumulations.

Massachusetts residents know that winter means snow. The state is often blanketed in a snowy shroud, with some areas faring better (or worse, depending on your perspective) than others. For example, Cape Cod, known for its beaches and summer charm, receives an average snowfall of around 25 inches (635mm). In contrast, the western division of the state, with its higher elevations and colder temperatures, can accumulate as much as 80 inches (2032mm) a stark contrast that underscores the state's diverse microclimates.

Snowstorms are a fact of life in Massachusetts. It's not uncommon for at least one storm each winter to deposit more than 5 inches (127mm) of snow. These significant snow events can disrupt daily life, impacting transportation, school schedules, and even power grids. Emergency preparedness and effective snow removal strategies are essential for navigating these winter challenges.

Shelburne Falls, a picturesque town in western Massachusetts, holds the distinction of being the snowiest place in the state each December. This charming locale sees an average of 17.4 inches of snow during the month and a remarkable 79.2 inches of snow throughout the entire year. This consistent snowfall makes Shelburne Falls a popular destination for winter enthusiasts and a testament to the region's snow-prone environment.

Considering the state as a whole, the annual snowfall average in Massachusetts hovers around 47.3 inches. However, its vital to remember that this figure is an average, and individual locations can experience significantly higher or lower accumulations depending on their specific geographic characteristics.

The data used to compile these snowfall statistics comes from various sources, including NOAA's nowdata service a comprehensive online weather data service offering monthly summarized data averages. This publicly accessible resource allows researchers, meteorologists, and the general public to track snowfall trends and gain insights into the state's winter climate.

For those seeking even more granular data, daily snow observations from Global Historical Climatology Network (GHCN) stations are available. These observations can be accessed through pulldown menus, allowing users to select the state, month, and year of interest for either snowfall or snow depth data. This level of detail is invaluable for researchers studying short-term weather patterns and the impact of individual snow events.

Historically, Boston, Massachusetts, has experienced significant snowfall events. According to NOAA records, the most snow the city has ever received in a single calendar year was a staggering 108.6 inches, recorded in 2015. This record-breaking year serves as a reminder of the potential for extreme weather and the importance of long-term climate monitoring.

Looking at more recent data, as of May 4, 2025, Boston had recorded 22.4 inches of snowfall for the year. This year-to-date figure provides a snapshot of the current winter season and allows for comparisons with historical snowfall patterns.

Analyzing monthly snowfall patterns reveals that February is typically the snowiest month in Massachusetts. During this month, snow falls for an average of 7.8 days, accumulating up to 4.61 inches (117mm). The combination of frequent snowfall and colder temperatures makes February the peak of the winter season.

Massachusetts's overall annual average snowfall total is around 40 inches. This figure provides a general benchmark, but it's crucial to remember the significant regional variations that exist across the state. Coastal areas typically receive far less snow than inland and higher-elevation regions.

While snowfall dominates the winter months, Massachusetts also experiences a snowless period. This period typically lasts for 6.9 months, extending from April 13 to November 10. During this time, temperatures are generally warmer, and precipitation falls primarily as rain.

Unsurprisingly, the least amount of snow falls around August 4, with an average total accumulation of 0.0 inches. This mid-summer period is characterized by warm temperatures and a complete absence of snowfall.

In Provincetown, a charming town located at the tip of Cape Cod, the winter months (December through February) bring low temperatures, limited daylight hours, and occasional snowfall. While snowfall is less frequent in this coastal community compared to other parts of the state, the winter season still presents its own unique challenges and characteristics.

The tables below provide a more detailed look at monthly averages for snowfall during March and April at various cities, communities, and other locations across Massachusetts. These tables offer valuable insights into the specific snowfall patterns experienced in different parts of the state.

The numbers presented in these tables represent the total amount of new snow and the number of days with at least 0.1 inches (0.25 centimeters) of snowfall during the specified month. This data provides a comprehensive understanding of snowfall frequency and accumulation.

Winter in Pittsfield, a city nestled in the Berkshire Mountains of western Massachusetts, lasts from December until February. This period is characterized by an abrupt drop in temperature, significant snowfall, and reduced daylight hours. The combination of these factors creates a distinct winter environment that requires specific adaptations and preparations.

Cambridge, home to prestigious universities and a vibrant cultural scene, experiences its snowiest month in January, with an average snowfall of 9.0 inches. While Cambridge is not typically known for extreme snowfall, it still experiences a noticeable winter season that impacts daily life and activities.

In summary, Massachusetts presents a diverse and dynamic winter weather landscape. From the relatively mild coastal regions to the snow-laden western mountains, the state offers a fascinating study in regional climate variations. Understanding these patterns is essential for effective planning, resource management, and appreciating the unique beauty of a New England winter.