Winter Weather — Lubbock, Texas

2008-01-31 · Lubbock, Texas

Wider weather episode

The passage of a Canadian cold front and a vigorous storm system combined to produce a brief bout of dangerous winter weather over much of the South Plains region of west Texas early on the 31st.

Northwesterly winds sustained at speeds in excess of 30 mph combined with light to moderate snowfall to result in widespread blowing snow. Although only light accumulations were reported at a few locations, visibilities were significantly restricted during the morning rush hour, and temperatures in the lower 20s caused the snow to quickly freeze onto area roadways.

Despite the fact that the storm's impact was brief, only two hours in duration, it contributed to more than 90 traffic accidents across the region and at least seven minor injuries. A total of 83 vehicular accidents were reported in Lubbock (Lubbock County), where all of the reported injuries occurred. Weather related collisions also were reported in Plainview, including one which involved a school bus. Total damages were estimated to be $900,000.

Most locations recorded less than one inch of total snow accumulation, however, a list of South Plains cities reporting one inch or greater accumulations included: 2 inches at Silverton (Briscoe County) with drifts up to 6 inches deep, 1 inch Bovina (Parmer County), 1 inch at Dimmitt (Castro County), 1 inch at Muleshoe (Bailey County), 1 inch at Plainview (Hale County), and 1 inch at Tulia (Swisher County).

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 67904. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.