Understanding Snowfall in Bend, Oregon

Bend, Oregon, is known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse weather patterns. The amount of snowfall experienced in Bend varies year to year, with some winters seeing significant accumulation while others are incredibly mild. This article explores the variability of snowfall in Bend and shares some notable experiences from the past few decades.

Variable Snowfall: What You Need to Know

It is important to understand that the amount of snow in Bend is highly variable. Some winters see substantial snowfall, while others experience minimal amounts. According to local records, one recent year experienced over 30 inches of snow in about 10 days, leading to structural damage like collapsed roofs, including an old gymnasium. Contrastingly, the past winter had only about 16 inches of snow spread throughout the season.

Mountain Skiing in Bend

To the west of Bend, on Mt. Bachelor, skiing can still be enjoyed until about 2 PM during the spring months. One specific winter, the base of Mt. Bachelor reached over 100 inches. The city of Bend has the distinction of having the last Blockbuster Video store on earth, a quirky fact that adds to its uniqueness.

Personal Stories and Observations

Personal Experiences: Growing up in Bend, I have witnessed varying snowfall conditions. In some years, as much as three feet of snow fell in a single night, while in other seasons, only a foot of snow accumulated during the entire season. There was even a year when snow was on the ground in Bend for 90 consecutive days, and skiers were still skiing Mt. Bachelor in June. These personal experiences highlight the annual variability of snowfall in Bend.

Historical Snowfall Data

Between November and March, Bend typically experiences about 20 snowstorms, with average snowfall ranging from a trace to an inch or two. However, the higher elevations near Bend receive several feet of snow due to their location on the eastern side of the Cascades. Below is a breakdown of typical snowfall patterns:

The Winter Wonders: In one particular year around 2010, the amount of snow was unprecedented. My family and I spent the Thanksgiving holiday and weekend in Sunriver, just a short distance from Bend, in a large rental house. The snowfall was intense, and it was a thrilling experience. It remains unclear if this level of snowfall occurs every late fall/Winter, or if we were simply fortunate to experience such rare snowy conditions in a typically mild November. The Average Winter: Typically, between November and March, Bend sees around 20 snowstorms. Each year, the amount of snow can vary significantly. For instance, one year there was a base of over 100 inches at Mt. Bachelor, while the past winter saw only 16 inches spread throughout the season.

These observations and experiences provide a glimpse into the variability of snowfall in Bend, Oregon, and underscore the importance of being prepared for the winter weather, whether you're in the city or at the slopes.

Faqs

How much snow did Bend have in recent years? One recent year, there was over 30 inches of snow in about 10 days, leading to structural damage. The past winter saw only about 16 inches of snow spread throughout the season. A specific year saw snow on the ground for 90 consecutive days, with skiers still skiing Mt. Bachelor in June. When is the best time to visit Bend for winter sports? Mountain skiing can still be enjoyed at Mt. Bachelor until about 2 PM during the spring months. Historically, the highest snow accumulation has been observed between November and March. What are the typical snowfall patterns in Bend? Between November and March, Bend typically experiences about 20 snowstorms, with average snowfall ranging from a trace to an inch or two. The higher elevations near Bend receive several feet of snow due to their location on the eastern side of the Cascades.

Conclusion

Bend, Oregon, boasts a unique climate with highly variable snowfall patterns. From significant winter storms to mild winters, the city's inhabitants and visitors experience a range of conditions. Understanding these patterns is crucial for planning and enjoying the winter months in this beautiful part of the country.