Brrr-inging it Back: The Deep Freeze of Philadelphia's Past
Ever wondered what the coldest Philly has ever gotten? We're not talking about your ex leaving you on read, although that can feel pretty darn icy. We're talking about the kind of cold that makes you wish you were born a penguin with a built-in tuxedo.
Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to embark on a chilly journey through Philadelphia's meteorological archives.
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| What Was The Coldest Temperature Ever Recorded In Philadelphia |
The Great Shiver of... February?
You might think the coldest Philly ever felt would be smack dab in the middle of winter, but nope! The official record for the lowest temperature ever recorded in the City of Brotherly Love goes to February 9th, 1899. That's right, folks, a measly -14°F (or -25.6°C for our metric friends). Brrr!
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Imagine waking up to that kind of temperature. You'd need a chisel to break the ice off your eyelashes!
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Side note: February seems to be a recurring theme for Philly's coldest days. The second and third coldest days on record also fall in February (1934 and 1961, respectively). February: Philly's official "don't stick your tongue to a metal pole" month.
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So, What Was Philly Like During the Great Shiver?
Unfortunately, time travel isn't a thing (yet!), so we can't be sure exactly what Philly was like during this frigid episode. But we can use our imaginations! Here's a hunch:
- Horses with built-in scarves: Forget blankets, these trusty steeds would have needed scarves woven directly into their manes and tails.
- Frozen Liberty Bell: Even the Liberty Bell would have needed a muffler – wouldn't want to crack a symbol of freedom because of the cold, right?
- Soup kitchens with revolving doors: The line for a hot bowl of something delicious would have been legendary.
Moral of the story: If you ever find yourself transported back in time to the Great Shiver of 1899, pack plenty of wool socks and a good sense of humor.
Frequently Asked Chilly Questions:
How to survive a Philly winter? Layers, my friend, layers. And maybe a pet penguin for emotional support.How to avoid getting frostbite? Keep your extremities covered, especially your fingers, toes, and ears. And maybe avoid licking any metal poles, just in case.How to prepare your home for a cold snap? Seal up any drafts, make sure your heating system is in good working order, and invest in some really cozy blankets.How to stay warm on a budget? Bundle up with what you have, cuddle with a pet (or a willing friend), and get creative with hot water bottles and strategic layering.How to convince your neighbor to turn their heat up? Bake them some cookies (bribery is sometimes the best policy, especially when it comes to staying warm).
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