One of the deadliest and most devastating snowstorms in American history was the Great Blizzard of 1888, also known as the Great White Hurricane. It happened in March of that year and had a significant effect on the Northeastern part of the nation.
Starting of Blizzard
On March 11, 1888, the blizzard began, lasting for three days. It was brought on by a cold front from Canada slamming with a low-pressure system that developed in the Gulf of Mexico and traveled up the east coast. The Northeastern region experienced the storm’s heavy snowfall, strong winds, and subzero temperatures.
Blizzard hits New York
The storm started in New York City, where 22 inches of snow fell and winds gusted to 80 mph. The city was unprepared for such a heavy snowfall, which paralyzed the transportation network. People were left trapped in their homes and places of employment while the trains and streetcars were broken down.
Later, as the storm traveled to other regions of the Northeast, it had an impact on towns and cities like Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. Boston experienced 32 inches of snowfall and gusts that gusted to 70 mph. The transportation network was rendered inoperable and the city’s streets were covered in several feet of snow.
Impacts on the Region
The region was devastated by the blizzard. Exposure to the cold and snow resulted in over 400 fatalities as well as numerous injuries and illnesses in humans. Buildings, roads, and infrastructure all sustained considerable damage as a result of the storm.
Creation of Centralized Weather Bureau
Following the hurricane, the local cities put plans in place to stop similar catastrophes from occurring again. A centralized weather bureau was formed in New York City to track the weather and give alerts. To prevent the delays brought on by snowstorms, the city also started to construct underground transportation networks, such as the underground.
Conclusion
A pivotal moment in American history, the Great Blizzard of 1888 is still remembered and researched today. It demonstrated the value of readiness and the requirement for practical responses to natural calamities.