The impact of the blizzard was felt far and wide, leaving a lasting mark on the city of Seattle. Approximately 15 tons of snow gracefully draped the dome of St. James Cathedral, ultimately leading to its collapse and the creation of a gaping 50-foot hole in the roof. The aftermath was disruptive, prompting the closure of schools and businesses as heavy snow and ice held trolleys and cars captive, freezing railroads and causing various roof structures to give way, as noted by local historian Paul Dorpat.
Captivating photographs from that fateful day capture the struggle of residents against nature’s wrath, with snow forming thick blankets over trolleys and sidewalks, making navigation a challenging task. In one striking image, a large American flag defiantly waves in the frigid breeze, a symbolic testament to resilience amidst adversity. The scene on Second Avenue in Seattle during the blizzard of February 2, 1916, paints a vivid picture of streetcars forging through snow-capped streetlights, while pedestrians blur in motion against the backdrop of the chilly weather.
Despite the overwhelming snowfall that buried outlying areas, a fleet of approximately 20 “Jitney Buses,” resembling modern-day taxi cabs, managed to navigate the snow-laden streets of Downtown Seattle, offering a lifeline for commuters. However, not all was smooth sailing, as reports emerged of discontent among users regarding the steep fares, akin to surge pricing well ahead of its time.
Seattle’s encounter with such heavy snowfall was a rarity, given its proximity to the temperate Pacific Ocean. In the annals of history, only one other day stands out with more than 20 inches of snow in a single day – a monumental storm striking the Seattle-Tacoma Airport in January 1950. The blizzards of 1916 and 1950, along with the legendary snowstorm of 1880, remain etched in memory, marking the city’s resilience against nature’s whims.
Seattle’s typical winter landscape sees an average snowfall of about 8-10 inches, a figure that has dwindled to around 6 inches over the past two decades. Interestingly, on that same Groundhog Day of 1916, Punxsutawney Phil predicted six more weeks of winter, contrasting the eventual turn of events in Seattle. Contrary to the forecast, the mercury rose to 50 degrees within a week, swiftly melting the 26-inch snow blanket by February 12.
A rapid shift in weather brought warmth to the city, with temperatures nearing 60 degrees just two days later, marking the end of freezing conditions for the rest of the winter. Seattle’s defiance against the unexpected snowstorm of 1916 serves as a testament to the city’s resilience and adaptability in the face of nature’s unpredictability.
[Original article source: This Seattle snow record was set on Ground
