Snowmageddons in the south: North Carolina's top 20 historic snowstorms by county
North Carolina, a state known for its mild winters and southern charm, occasionally trades its usual warmth for the icy allure of significant snowstorms. From the majestic mountains to the serene coast, the Tar Heel State has witnessed its fair share of snowmageddons, transforming familiar landscapes into enchanting winter wonderlands. Using data from the National Center for Environmental Information, we dive into the top 20 biggest snowstorms that left an indelible mark on North Carolina.
Does it snow in North Carolina? Exploring winter's embrace:
1. Yancey County - Winter blizzard of 1993 (36 inches):
In 1993, Yancey County faced an unprecedented winter storm, where 3 feet of snow turned the region into a winter wonderland, leaving residents in awe.
2. Chowan County - Edenton's snowy surprise (26 inches):
Edenton experienced a surprising winter in 1927 with 26 inches of snow, catching residents off guard and creating a beautiful snowy landscape.
3. Wayne County - Wayne's winter whiteness (26 inches):
In 1927, Wayne County was transformed into a serene snowscape with 2 feet of snow, painting a picturesque scene across the county.
4. Macon County - March miracle of 1993 (25.5 inches):
The March Miracle of 1993 graced Macon County with 25.5 inches of snow, creating enduring memories of winter scenes.
5. Ashe County - Snowy tranquility in Transou (24 inches):
Transou in Ashe County witnessed a tranquil snowy landscape in 1996 with 2 feet of snow, captivating residents and nature enthusiasts.
6. Avery County - Beech mountain's winter wonderland (24 inches):
Beech Mountain became a winter wonderland in 2001 with 24 inches of snow, offering breathtaking scenes in the mountainous region.
North Carolina snow: Historical insights:
7. Cumberland County - Fayetteville's frosty surprise (24 inches):
In 1927, Fayetteville faced an unexpected winter storm, receiving 2 feet of snow, a rare occurrence for this southern county.
8. Randolph County - Asheboro's whiteout (24 inches):
Asheboro saw a significant snowfall in 1927 with 24 inches of snow blanketing the region, presenting challenges and scenic beauty.
9. Vance County - Winter whirlwind of 1922 (22.5 inches):
In 1922, Vance County experienced a winter whirlwind with 22.5 inches of snow, surprising residents and creating lasting memories.
10. Carteret County - Coastal snowstorm (22 inches):
Carteret County faced a coastal snowstorm in 1980, receiving 22 inches of snow, an unusual event for this coastal region.
Snow predictions for NC:
11. Guilford County - Greensboro's snow blanket (20 inches):
Greensboro faced a substantial snowstorm in 1927, receiving 20 inches of snow. The city transformed into a winter wonderland, creating enchanting scenes.
12. Iredell County - Snowy scenes in McHenrys Bridge (20 inches):
McHenrys Bridge in Iredell County witnessed a winter storm in 1927, leaving 20 inches of snow. The picturesque scenes painted a snowy masterpiece across the county.
13. Onslow County - Coastal winter majesty (20 inches):
In 1980, Onslow County experienced an unexpected coastal winter storm, receiving 20 inches of snow. Coastal areas were blanketed in rare wintry beauty.
14. Wilkes County - Snowy serenity in North Wilkesboro (20 inches):
North Wilkesboro in Wilkes County faced a serene winter storm in 1930, with 20 inches of snow covering the landscape. The town embraced a snowy tranquility.
15. Alleghany County - Blizzard of 1998 (19.5 inches):
The Blizzard of 1998 brought Alleghany County to a standstill with 19.5 inches of snow. The county transformed into a winter wonderland, captivating residents.
16. Rowan County - Salisbury's winter whiteout (19 inches):
Salisbury witnessed a winter whiteout in 1927, with 19 inches of snow covering the town. The snowfall created challenges but also stunning scenes.
17. Durham County - Snowy surprises in Rougemont (18.5 inches):
In 1930, Durham County experienced a snowy surprise with 18.5 inches of snow in Rougemont, creating a winter landscape rarely seen in this area.
18. Alamance County - Winter wonderland unleashed (18 inches):
In 1927, Alamance County witnessed a winter wonderland unleashed, with 18 inches of snow transforming the landscape into a snowy paradise.
19. Wake County - Snowy scenes in Raleigh (18 inches):
Raleigh and the surrounding areas of Wake County received the most amount of snow in 2000, with nearly 18 inches transforming the region into a winter wonderland.
20. Watauga County -The Great Blizzard of 1960 (82.8 inches):
In March 1960, the Eastern Seaboard experienced a hard winter with record-breaking cold and snow. The month had snow on the first three Wednesdays and sleet on the fourth. The total snowfall for Boone, North Carolina, was 82.8 inches for February and March. The March 1960 nor'easter was the third highest average snow producing Nor'easter. It caused at least 80 deaths, stranded thousands of residents and closed schools.
As we stroll down the frozen memory lane of North Carolina, it's evident that the state, though not known for extreme winters, has encountered its fair share of snowfall surprises. From the mountains to the coastal plains, each snowstorm has etched its own unique story into the history of the Tar Heel State. The unpredictable nature of North Carolina's climate continues to surprise and delight, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of its residents in the face of nature's wintry whims.
