Upper Peninsula Weather: A History of Blizzards and What the Future May Hold
Conversations across the Upper Peninsula often turn to the weather, especially during heavy snowfall. From school closures to roof collapses, the impact is immediate and widespread. Looking back at past storms, like those detailed in a recent article by the Mining Journal, offers valuable perspective and raises questions about future preparedness.
Early 20th Century Storms: Harrowing Tales of Survival
The early 1920s brought brutal conditions to the U.P. In 1922, three girls from Ishpeming faced a terrifying night after attending a dance in Negaunee. Delayed train service and a relentless blizzard forced them to seek shelter in a factory doorway, where they were eventually rescued, exhausted and near freezing. Just three years later, in 1925, five boys venturing into the woods near Diorite found themselves lost in a sudden snowstorm. While three made it home, two endured a harrowing ordeal, with one suffering severe frostbite requiring leg amputations. These stories, recounted from Karl Bohnak’s book, “So Cold A Sky,” highlight the dangers of underestimating the power of U.P. Winters.
The Storm of the Century: 1938
January 1938 brought what became known as the “storm of the century” to the Upper Peninsula. A rapid shift in weather conditions, from a January thaw to a raging blizzard, caught residents off guard. Snow fell for over 30 hours, creating drifts up to 14 feet high in Schoolcraft County, according to the Pioneer Tribune. Transportation ground to a halt, with even train travel becoming impossible. Snow removal efforts were hampered by outdated equipment; crews relied on tractors and manual shoveling using a “tier” technique, a sluggish and arduous process. It took six days to travel just ten miles between Negaunee and Palmer.
The 1938 blizzard also impacted daily life beyond transportation. Schools were forced to close and even miners were stranded at various sites, requiring rescue efforts. The storm’s intensity was such that it was described as the worst since 1905.
The Blizzard of ’78 and Beyond
The U.P. Has continued to experience severe blizzards. The blizzard of 1978, while not detailed extensively in the source material, is remembered by many residents, with some even commemorating their survival with commemorative buttons. This storm, like the one in 1938, brought significant snowfall and disrupted travel, with drifts packed so hard they were walkable. Negaunee Township recorded 27 inches of snow.
Looking Ahead: What Can We Expect?
While predicting the future with certainty is impossible, historical trends suggest the Upper Peninsula will continue to be vulnerable to severe winter storms. Climate change is introducing latest complexities. Warmer temperatures can lead to increased moisture in the atmosphere, potentially resulting in heavier snowfall events. But, warmer temperatures could also signify more mixed precipitation events – rain, sleet, and freezing rain – which can create different, but equally dangerous, conditions.
Improved forecasting technology and snow removal equipment have undoubtedly increased our ability to prepare for and respond to blizzards. However, the lessons from the past remain relevant. Being prepared with emergency supplies, having a plan for potential power outages, and heeding warnings from local authorities are crucial for staying safe during severe winter weather.
FAQ
Q: What was the worst blizzard in Upper Peninsula history?
A: The blizzard of 1938 is often referred to as the “storm of the century” due to its intensity and widespread impact.
Q: How have snow removal techniques changed over time?
A: Early snow removal relied on tractors and manual shoveling. Modern plows are faster and more efficient, but still face challenges during extreme snowfall events.
Q: What can residents do to prepare for a blizzard?
A: Prepare an emergency kit with food, water, and supplies. Have a plan for power outages, and stay informed about weather forecasts.
Did you know? In 1938, it took six days to travel just ten miles between Negaunee and Palmer due to the severity of the blizzard.
Pro Tip: Regularly check the National Weather Service website for the latest forecasts and warnings: https://www.weather.gov/
Have you experienced a significant blizzard in the Upper Peninsula? Share your story in the comments below!
