ANSWER: Thunder and lightning are actually common in the wintertime, especially in the United States. Strong winter storms and blizzards are capable of both thunder and lightning.

Why do snowstorms not have lightning?

The opaqueness of snowflakes and their sound-muffling fluffiness greatly limit the distance lightning can be seen or thunder heard during snow events. Typically during snowstorms, moist and relatively stable air flows gently upward and over colder air; it cools as it ascends and its moisture condenses into snow.

What causes snow thunder?

Thundersnow occurs when normal snowstorm clouds begin to develop upward bumps, known as turrets. These turrets are caused by instability within the storm system, combined with a strong lifting mechanism.