Schools are closed around the state today and snow is on its way. The blizzard we're about to have will be nothing compared to the infamous blizzard of 1996. The storm lasted two days, from January 6th - January 8th, with snow beginning to fall in New Jersey before dawn on the 7th.
Snow barreled through the state with a total of 32 inches in Edison and Elizabeth - just two inches less than the state record set in 1899.
Sussex County got hit hardest overall, with an average of 27 inches. Most areas of New Jersey accumulated 16 - 24 inches, with some parts of Ocean County getting as little as 10 (along with sleet and freezing rain). With 2/3 of the state covered in at least two inches of snow, this was the most debilitating storm to hit New Jersey in the 20th century.
However, it wasn't just the snow that made this storm a nightmare - hurricane-force winds swept the state.
Wind gusts got up to 81 miles per hour in Ocean Grove and power lines were downed left and right. The storm also caused significant flooding along our coast, with tides 3-4 feet above average.A state of emergency was declared and every road in New Jersey was closed. This included the entire length of the Turnpike, fully closed for the first time in its existence. Newark and all surrounding airports were closed as well.
A child at the time of the storm, I have fond memories of sinking into the snowbanks and diving into mounds taller than myself. I recall trying to help my parents shovel, only to nearly be blown away (definitely more thrilling than terrifying for me at the time). For most adults though, this storm was a nightmare. These video of the storm's coverage will take you back:
How well do you remember the blizzard of '96? Share your stories and photos with us in the comments.
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