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On January 21, 2025, a historic weather event unfolded as parts of the southern United States were enveloped in a rare snowfall, initiating a wave of winter-related activities for residents. In cities like Houston, families embraced the unusual cold snap by engaging in snow tubing, constructing snowballs, and creating snow angels. One of the more striking images from this peculiar weather event was the sight of individuals skiing on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, a location typically associated with warmth and festivities.
New Orleans experienced its first significant snowfall in 15 years, with nearby Kenner, Louisiana, receiving approximately four inches. The last measurable snow prior to this was recorded in 2009, showcasing just a tenth of an inch. Historically, the city’s record for snowfall stands at 2.7 inches, a mark set back in 1963, as noted by Axios.
The National Weather Service issued a first-ever blizzard warning for parts of southern Louisiana, predicting snowfall accumulations between four and seven inches. This cold snap coincides with a broader chill affecting much of the country, as an arctic air mass has settled over approximately 40 states, impacting nearly 220 million residents. The frigid temperatures and hazardous wind chills have created dangerous conditions across the region.
In addition to New Orleans, Houston faced significant snowfall, experiencing over four inches from Monday night into Tuesday morning. Winter storm warnings extended to coastal areas of Mississippi, Alabama, and the Florida Panhandle, further highlighting the widespread impact of this weather system.
Schools across Florida, Mississippi, and Louisiana have closed through Wednesday due to the inclement weather. Reports from FlightAware indicate that a staggering 95% of flights departing from Houston’s airports were canceled, along with 89% of flights from New Orleans International Airport.
Local officials in New Orleans have advised residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. The city, lacking its own snowplow fleet, is collaborating with the Louisiana Department of Transportation to remove snow and treat icy roads.
During a press conference, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landy remarked on the potential implications of the snowfall, specifically warning that if regions like New Orleans receive more than the anticipated four inches, it could bring the state to a standstill for several days.
Source
www.yahoo.com