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Satisfy your snow craving: A look at Triangle snowfalls in the past 25 years

To satisfy your snow craving, here's a look back at some of the most recent snowfalls in Raleigh.

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By
Kaila Curry, Audience Engagement Producer
and
Jessica Patrick, WRAL Sr. multiplatform producer

The Triangle region, comprising Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill in North Carolina, is no stranger to snowfall, despite its southern location. Through an exploration of historical data from the National Weather Service, WRAL Severe Weather Team archives and N.C. State University's winter storm database, we embark on a journey through time, uncovering the most significant snowfall events in the Triangle.

Recent measurable snowfalls in Raleigh

To satisfy your snow craving, let's take a closer look at some of the more recent measurable snowfalls in Raleigh, culminating in the biggest snowstorm in Triangle history.

1 . Jan. 27-28, 2021: Roxboro's Winter Wonderland

Snow in NC, Jan. 28, 2021.

While the snow mostly stayed north of the Triangle on January 27-28, 2021, Roxboro became the epicenter for central North Carolina's winter enchantment. The town experienced a generous blanket of snow, turning it into a winter wonderland and providing residents with a rare and delightful snowy spectacle.

Snowy sunrise over the downtown Raleigh skyline.

On the afternoon of Feb. 20, 2020, temperatures were initially too warm for accumulation. However, as evening fell, temperatures dropped, and light snow began falling over central North Carolina. According to data from North Carolina State University, snowfall totals ranged between 1 to 4 inches, with most locations in the Triad and Triangle receiving 2 to 3 inches. In Creedmoor, there was just enough snow for kids to build a snowman, adding a touch of winter magic to the landscape.

Still snow on the ground in Wake Forest with a few flurries. Got the drone up. South Eastern Baptist Seminary/Old Wake Forest College Campus - Wake Forest, NC.
December 9, 2018, marked a significant winter storm that dumped up to 11 inches of snow in parts of the Triangle before changing over to rain. Sadly, the storm led to power outages for approximately 200,000 people and three individuals lost their lives. The storm's impact was substantial, underlining the challenges that heavy snowfall can pose to the region.
Snow in Henderson

January 2018 witnessed two measurable snowfalls in central North Carolina. The storm on Jan. 17 brought some of the heaviest snow, with Chatham, Orange and Person counties recording 10 to 12 inches. Meanwhile, Jan. 3-4 saw around two inches of snow in Raleigh, prompting school closures and providing an opportunity for kids to enjoy sledding at Dix Park.

In February 2014, a snowstorm covered almost the entire state of North Carolina, with parts of Wake County, including the Triangle, seeing more than 5 inches of snow. This memorable event also gave rise to the famous N.C. snow meme, reflecting the internet's humorous take on the challenges of winter weather.

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In a rare occurrence, the Triangle experienced a white Christmas in 2010. The snowfall, which began on Christmas night, dropped up to 12 inches in parts of central North Carolina, making it the first white Christmas in over 60 years.

7. Jan. 18-25, 2000: Breaking records with over 23 inches

Between Jan. 18-25, 2000, the Triangle faced a historic snowstorm, recording over 23 inches of snow at Raleigh-Durham International Airport. This event broke snowfall records dating back to January 1893, creating lasting memories for residents who recall missing "more than a week" of school and wading through snow up to their waists.

The Triangle's history is punctuated with remarkable snowfall events, each leaving its mark on the region. By examining historical data and recent snowfalls, we gain a deeper appreciation for the dynamic nature of North Carolina's climate and the resilience of its residents in the face of winter's challenges.

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