The Rare Beauty of Snow in the South Versus the North
Snow in New England and the South presents two vastly different experiences. In New England, snow is a familiar and predictable part of winter, with the region often blanketed in thick, consistent snowfall from December to March. Summer vacation favorites like Cape Cod, Boston, Stowe, and Burlington are well-equipped to handle the challenges of Jack Frost. From shoveling driveways to navigating icy roads, these winter challenges come with the territory of living in the North. Winter sports like ice skating and skiing are part of the culture, and snow is often seen as a routine part of life.
In contrast, snow in the southern states is a rare and fleeting phenomenon, a surprise that can bring both joy and chaos. Cities like Atlanta, Myrtle Beach, and Houston may only see a dusting of snow every few years. When it does fall, it often causes major disruptions because the infrastructure and residents aren’t accustomed to it. For Southerners, snow is magical and novel, transforming everyday landscapes into winter wonderlands, albeit for a short time before the warmth quickly melts it away.
Here are a few photos of the snow rarity captured by guests and friends of the Woods Hole Inn:
North Carolina
Fayetteville, North Carolina saw a rare light snowfall that caught the city by surprise. Snowfall in this region is uncommon with the last measurable snow on January 29th, 2022 making the dusting of snow a special sight.
Alabama
Alabama, Mobile (captured above) received 7.5 inches of snow, marking the heaviest snowfall in over 60 years!
Texas
Houston Texas experienced up to 4 inches of snowfall in just a few hours, leading to school closures, highway closures, and a flurry of social media posts documenting the rare event. The chaos that ensued may have been challenging, but it also highlighted the excitement and wonder that snow brings to a region not accustomed to it.
South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (captured above) experienced a rare snowfall. An event that is a true anomaly for the coastal city. Flurries in this region is exceptionally uncommon due to its mild winters and proximity to the ocean. However, on this occasion, a light dusting covered the area, delighting both residents and visitors who are more accustomed to sandy beaches than snowflakes.
Florida
White sandy beaches and warm climate, Destin, Florida (captured above) also experienced a rare snowfall that took both locals and visitors by surprise. Snow in this coastal area is an infrequent occurrence, making the sight of snowflakes a memorable event.
For those lucky enough to witness snow, it’s a reminder that nature has a way of surprising us in the most unexpected ways. The South may not have snow on a regular basis, but when it does snow, it feels like a special occasion—a fleeting yet unforgettable experience that leaves people with memories to last a lifetime. If this weather brings you a sense of joy and wonder, consider adding a Woods Hole, Cape Cod winter to your escape plans this year. Read more on our latest Woods Hole Snow News HERE.