Snow is a common phenomenon in Pennsylvania, especially in the winter months. Are you wondering what the record snowfall is in Pennsylvania? Some snowstorms stand out from the rest, breaking records and making history. Below, we will explore the five highest snowfall records in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Record Snowfall
The most snowfall ever recorded in Pennsylvania was 41 inches on February 16, 1958 in Wayne county, which is located in the northeastern part of the state. This remarkable amount of snow was the result of a low-pressure system that moved across the Great Lakes and brought cold air and moisture to the region.
The snowfall lasted for about 24 hours and covered the entire county with a thick blanket of white. The snowstorm affected the transportation, communication, and power systems of the area, as well as the daily lives of the residents.
Storm of the Century in PA
The second highest snowfall record in Pennsylvania was 40 inches on March 14, 1993 in Somerset county, which is situated in the southwestern region. This was part of the infamous “Storm of the Century” that affected the entire eastern coast of the United States.
The storm was a massive nor’easter that combined with a cyclone and produced strong winds, heavy rain, and blizzard conditions. The storm caused widespread damage and fatalities across 26 states and Canada.
In Somerset county, the snowfall was so intense that it buried cars, houses, and roads. The county was declared a disaster area and received federal assistance to recover from the storm.
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Third Highest Snowfall Record in PA
The third highest snowfall record in Pennsylvania was 38 inches on March 20, 1958 in Berks county, which is in the southeastern area. This was another low-pressure system that originated from the Gulf of Mexico and moved northeastward along the Atlantic coast.
The storm brought warm and moist air that clashed with the cold air over the Appalachian Mountains and produced heavy snowfall. The snowfall was accompanied by strong winds that created drifts and reduced visibility. The storm paralyzed the county and disrupted the normal activities of the people. The snowfall also damaged crops, trees, and power lines.
Fourth Highest Snowfall Record in Pennsylvania
The fourth highest snowfall record in Pennsylvania was 36 inches on March 14, 1993 in Tioga county, which is in the central part of the state. This was also part of the “Storm of the Century” that affected the eastern United States.
The storm brought frigid air and moisture from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean and created a powerful blizzard. The storm dumped heavy snowfall across the county and created hazardous conditions for travel and outdoor activities. The storm also caused power outages, roof collapses, and flooding.
Great Blizzard of 1899 in Pennsylvania
The fifth highest snowfall record in Pennsylvania was 35.3 inches on February 13, 1899 in Chester county, which is also in the central part of the state. This was part of the “Great Blizzard of 1899” that affected the entire country and was one of the coldest and snowiest winters on record.
The storm was a high-pressure system that originated from the Arctic and brought extremely cold air and snow to the United States. The storm caused record low temperatures and snowfall across the country.
In Chester county, the snowfall was so heavy that it blocked the roads and railways and isolated the communities. The snowfall also killed livestock and wildlife and damaged buildings and crops.
Pennsylvania is a state that has witnessed some of the most memorable and historic snowstorms in the nation.
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