Los Angeles: The Land of Eternal Sunshine (Except That One Time)
You've probably heard the stereotype: Los Angeles is a sun-kissed paradise where people wear sunglasses indoors and own more pairs of flip-flops than socks. And while this is largely true, even the City of Angels has its chilly moments. Let's dive into the bone-chilling question: When was it actually cold in LA?
A Brief History of Cold in LA: Ice Age, Not Ice Cube
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's set the record straight: LA has never experienced a full-blown winter wonderland. No snowmen, no sledding, and definitely no frostbite. But that doesn't mean it hasn't gotten downright nippy.
The coldest day in LA's recorded history was a frigid 28 degrees Fahrenheit on January 12, 1949. Imagine that! Palm trees shivering, surfers wearing wetsuits (okay, maybe not), and Angelenos huddled around their fireplaces... or, more likely, complaining about the cold while still wearing shorts.
Other Chilly Moments
While 1949 takes the crown for the coldest day ever, there have been other notable cold snaps. In 1921, there was even a dusting of snow in some parts of the city. We repeat: dusting. Enough to make a snowman the size of a golf ball, but not enough to cancel school.
More recently, in 2007, LA experienced a "freeze" that sent everyone into a panic. Temperatures dropped into the low 40s, and people were spotted wearing... gasp jackets! It was like something out of a horror movie.
So, How Cold is Really Cold in LA?
Let's be honest, when an Angeleno says "cold," they probably mean anything below 70 degrees. So, yeah, 28 degrees is pretty darn cold by LA standards. But compared to the rest of the country, it's still basically a tropical vacation.
To sum it up: LA is not exactly known for its icy winters. But every once in a while, Mother Nature throws us a curveball and reminds us that even in paradise, it can get a little chilly. Just don't expect to build a snowman anytime soon.
How To... Survive an LA Cold Snap
- How to dress for an LA cold snap: Layers, layers, layers. And maybe a scarf. Just kidding, a tank top will probably do.
- How to stay warm in an LA cold snap: Turn up the thermostat to 72 degrees, complain loudly, and dream of warmer days.
- How to entertain yourself during an LA cold snap: Go to the beach. Seriously, it’s probably warmer there.
- How to prepare for an LA snowstorm: Stock up on sunscreen and sunglasses. You'll need them for the after-snow glow.
- How to appreciate the beauty of an LA cold snap: Realize that you live in a place where "cold" is relative, and be grateful for the sunshine that will return tomorrow.
