Thundersnow. Strong winter snowstorms and blizzards commonly produce lightning strikes, a phenomenon referred to as 'thundersnow'. Lightning and thunder can occur with any type of winter precipitation - including snow, sleet ('thundersleet') and freezing rain.

What does it mean when it thunders when snowing?

Thunder in the winter usually means a cold front is moving through and bringing in much-colder air. Ahead of the front warm-moist air will help create thunderstorms. Behind the front it would be cold enough for snow, and sometimes it does indeed snow.

Why is there no lightning or thunder when it snows?

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.