Coeur d'Alene Averages 50-60 Inches of Snow Annually
Coeur d'Alene typically receives 50-60 inches of snow per year, with the snowiest months being December through February. Snowfall varies yearly, but higher elevations nearby see significantly more. Winter temperatures average 20-35°F, with occasional cold snaps dipping below freezing.
Monthly Snowfall Breakdown
- November: 3-5 inches (first measurable snow)
- December: 12-18 inches (peak snowfall begins)
- January: 15-20 inches (coldest month)
- February: 10-15 inches (snow tapers off)
- March: 5-8 inches (transition to spring)
Snowfall Comparison: Coeur d'Alene vs. Nearby Regions
| Location | Annual Snowfall | Snow Season Length | Elevation Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coeur d'Alene (city) | 50-60 inches | November-March | Low (2,100 ft) |
| Nearby Mountains | 100-200+ inches | October-April | High (3,000-5,000 ft) |
| Western Valleys | 20-30 inches | December-February | Low (1,500-2,000 ft) |
Factors Affecting Snowfall
- Elevation: Higher areas (e.g., ski resorts) get 2-3x more snow than the city.
- Lake Effect: Proximity to large lakes can slightly increase local snowfall.
- Pacific Storms: Moisture from the Pacific brings heavy snow during December-January.
- Chinook Winds: Warm winds may cause rapid melting or rain-snow mix.
Snow Removal & Preparation Tips
- Residents typically need snow shovels, ice melt, and winter tires.
- Major roads are plowed quickly, but side streets may take 12-24 hours.
- Roofs should be checked for ice dams after heavy snow (risk at 12+ inches).
- Power outages are rare but possible during ice storms (1-2 events/year).
Historical Snowfall Extremes
- Snowiest Month: January 1969 (42 inches).
- Least Snowy Winter: 1976-77 (18 inches total).
- Record Single Storm: 22 inches (December 1996).