Boston’s Snowfall Records Reflect a Decade of Extremes
Boston has long been known for its challenging winters, and the past decade has been no exception. From the record-breaking snowfall of 2015 to milder seasons in subsequent years, the city’s annual snowfall totals have presented a fluctuating pattern of challenges and resilience for residents and infrastructure.
The winter of stands as a stark reminder of Boston’s vulnerability to extreme weather. The city received an astounding 110.6 inches
of snow, setting a new record for snowfall in a single season, according to records from the past decade. Multiple powerful storms, including a historic blizzard in , brought the city to a standstill, straining resources and disrupting daily life for weeks.
Following the intense winter of , Boston experienced a significant decrease in snowfall during . The city recorded a total accumulation of 36.1 inches
, a considerable contrast to the previous year’s record-breaking total. While still above the city’s average, the winter of was comparatively mild, allowing for smoother operations and a quicker recovery from snow events.
Looking back further, Boston’s snowfall history reveals a diverse range of winter conditions. On , the city recorded its highest single-day snowfall in recent history, with 23.6 inches
of snow falling, a figure matched on . Other notable snowfall events include 5.3 inches
on , 12.3 inches
on , and 9.9 inches
on .
The highest daily snowfall recorded in Boston each year varies considerably. For example, saw 14.8 inches
, while recorded only 2.9 inches
. The data, which dates back to , shows that snowfall measurements have been taken at Boston’s Logan International Airport since , prior to which they were recorded in downtown Boston.
The annual snowfall history of Boston from to illustrates the dynamic interplay between weather systems and urban life. Each year presents its own unique challenges, and Boston’s ability to adapt and respond to these challenges is a testament to the resilience of its inhabitants. The city continues to stand as a symbol of strength in the face of winter’s icy grip.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides ongoing climate reports, including annual summaries of weather patterns and extremes. The National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) publishes these reports, offering detailed analyses of climate data across the United States. Reports from and are available through NOAA’s resources.
