JANUARY 2011: NYC’s Snowiest January Ever!

No, that’s not a typo.  This post is a flashback to last January, which was much more interesting than this one is shaping up to be!

In January 2011, NYC had 36 inches of snow breaking the record of 27.4 inches for the month which was set way back in 1925. 

It was also our second snowiest month ever.

Looking outside at the huge piles of snow everywhere I found myself having flashbacks to the winter of 95/96, which was our snowiest winter ever.

I remember it well. And as a result, every winter since then hasn’t seemed that bad – until 2011.

In 1995/1996 it started snowing earlier (November) but 2010/2011 included the sixth largest snowstorm ever in December.

That storm, the day after Xmas, was an absolute nightmare since everyone with a brain was on vacation when it hit.  But as a result the city got its act together before the January snows started.  And it’s a good thing they did because there were lots of them.

On the plus side, instead of worrying about driving to New Jersey in bad weather as I did in 95/96, I have enough flexibility in my schedule now to actually take off snow days and head out with my camera.

The Upper East Side was turned into a true winter wonderland. 

And much to everyone’s relief, February, which is usually our snowiest month wasn’t that bad.  So, we didn’t break a record for the season as it originally appeared we were destined to do. 

2011/2012 started with a freak October snowstorm, but has been fairly warm ever since.  It’s really confusing the plants.  But I’m thrilled. 

Ciao

PJ

(c) 2012 PJ Lehrer