Say it isn’t snow? Texas Panhandle cleans up after rare October snowfall

AMARILLO, Texas -- Heavy snow fell in parts of the Texas Panhandle late this week, causing near whiteout conditions in Amarillo, according to the National Weather Service.

Residents posted photos of the rare October snow storm on social media that show their fall decorations and pumpkins covered in white flakes as well as their pets frolicking in the snow.

Snow is uncommon for Amarillo this time of year but not unheard of, according to meteorologist Taylor Ward.

"The earliest measurable snow on record is September 29, 1984," said Ward. "The earliest in the season that they have ever had 1"+ is October 15, 1970."

There was even the phenomenon known as "thundersnow," the combination of snow and a thunderstorm.

About 4 inches of snow fell five miles west of Amarillo, according to the NWS. They said that the largest drifts at their office in Amarillo had ranged between 10 and 12 inches.

"By the time it was done, a few spots ended up with around six inches," said Ward.