Snow Depth Calculator — Average Measured Readings
Average measured snow depths in centimeters or inches and report the range, number of readings and converted average without forecasting snowfall.
Calculate the average of snow-depth measurements taken at several representative locations. Enter readings in centimeters or inches, using the same unit throughout the list. The result describes the snow currently on the ground at the sampled places, rather than the amount that fell during a recent storm.
How to use this tool
- Measure vertically to the ground at representative nearby locations.
- Enter the readings separated by spaces, commas or new lines, using zero for sampled bare ground.
- Choose the common unit used for all readings.
- Review the average, minimum and maximum together; a wide range may indicate uneven cover or drifting.
Formula
Mean depth = (depth₁ + depth₂ + … + depthₙ) ÷ n
Every reading receives the same weight. The program accepts up to 200 readings and converts the average with exactly 2.54 centimeters per inch. It does not infer an area-weighted average from unequal sample areas or apply local reporting codes.
Example
If representative equal-weight locations measure 0 inches and 6 inches, the numerical average is 3 inches, or 7.62 centimeters. This includes the sampled bare location; excluding it would describe only the snow-covered sample.
Frequently asked questions
Is snow depth the same as snowfall?
No. Snow depth includes the snow remaining on the ground. New snowfall can settle, melt or blow away, so adding storm snowfall totals does not necessarily give the current measured depth.
How should I choose measuring spots?
Use representative, undisturbed exposed ground and several readings when cover varies. Avoid treating an ice crust as the ground. The linked NWS guidance explains practical observation choices and separate reporting conventions.
Does this produce an official weather report?
No. It preserves the numerical mean. An observing network may require whole-inch rounding, trace notation or specific sampling rules. Apply that network’s instructions separately rather than treating this average as an official coded observation.
Sources
Last updated: 2026-10-30