The Great Philly Snowmageddon of: Wait, When Was That Again?
Ah, Philadelphia and snow. A love story for the ages, except maybe for those of us who spent hours shoveling our driveways after a surprise blizzard. But hey, at least those surprise blizzards come with bragging rights, especially if it involves a record-breaking snowfall. Which brings us to our history lesson today: the year Philadelphia got drowned (well, almost) in snow.
What Year Did Philadelphia Get 30 Inches Of Snow |
Digging Up the Details: The Blizzard of 1996
That's right, folks, we're talking about the legendary Blizzard of 1996. This wasn't your average dusting of snowflakes. This was a full-on winter wonderland nightmare (or dream, depending on your tolerance for the cold and your love of sledding). We're talking 30.7 inches of the white stuff, blanketing the city and leaving everyone wondering if they'd ever see their car again.
Fun Fact: That 30.7 inches officially dethroned the previous record holder, a measly 21.3 inches from who-knows-when. Because apparently, Philadelphians like to break snowstorm records like nobody's business.
Tip: Train your eye to catch repeated ideas.
TheAftermath: Snow Fortresses and City-Wide Shenanigans
Imagine the scene: schools closed for days, streets impassable, and a city transformed into a giant snowball fight arena. People were digging tunnels to their neighbors' houses (okay, maybe a slight exaggeration, but you get the picture). It was a time for epic snow fort building competitions, questionable attempts at driving (let's not relive those), and a newfound appreciation for hot cocoa.
Side Note: The snow got so bad, the city actually had to resort to dumping it off bridges. Yes, you read that right. Apparently, even snowplows have their limits.
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
So, You Think You Know Philly Snow?
Test your knowledge with this quick quiz! (Answers below, no peeking!)
- How many inches of snow did Philly get in the Blizzard of 1996?
- True or False: The previous snowstorm record was a whopping 10 feet.
- What unconventional method did the city use to deal with all that snow? (Hint: It involves heights and a lack of dumpsters)
(Quiz Answers: 1. 30.7 inches, 2. False [thank goodness], 3. Dumping snow off bridges)
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
How to Survive a Philly Snowpocalypse (Because Apparently They Happen)
Okay, so you're prepped for the history lesson, but what about the future? Here are some essential tips for surviving a Philly snowstorm:
How to channel your inner snow fort architect: Stock up on blankets, pillows, and anything else that can transform your living room into a winter wonderland masterpiece. Bonus points for a moat made of strategically placed throw pillows.
Reminder: Take a short break if the post feels long.
How to become a master negotiator: When the snow melts, be prepared to barter your expert shoveling skills for baked goods from your neighbors. Remember, a well-timed cinnamon roll can go a long way.
How to avoid becoming a popsicle: Invest in a good winter coat, because let's be real, the wind chill in Philly can be brutal.
How to master the art of the perfect snowball: The key is a good snow-to-water ratio. Too much water and it turns into a sad, slushy mess. Too little, and it'll crumble in your hand. Practice makes perfect!
How to find the humor in the situation: Because sometimes, all you can do is laugh. Embrace the absurdity of it all, and remember, this too shall pass (eventually).