The Snowiest Place in Connecticut
Canton, located in the Farmington Valley section of Hartford County, is the snowiest place in Connecticut. With an average annual snowfall of 63.96 inches, it receives more snow than any other town in the state. The town has a population of 10,124, according to the 2020 census, and it is known for its quaint community. Despite its size, Canton has a rich history and a number of historical landmarks. These include the Collinsville Historic District and the Canton Historical Society Museum. Canton’s location in the northwest corner of Connecticut makes it particularly susceptible to snowy weather. Its proximity to the Massachusetts border means that it often experiences the same storms that bring heavy snow to the Bay State. In addition, the town is situated in the Farmington Valley, which is known for its cold and snowy winters. Despite the challenges posed by the snow, Canton’s residents are well-prepared for the colder months. They are accustomed to harsh winters and have a fleet of snowplows ready to clear the roads and keep the town moving.
How Much Snow Does Connecticut Get Annually?
Connecticut is no stranger to snowy winters, with an average annual snowfall of 37 inches. This is significantly higher than the US average of 28 inches. However, the distribution of snowfall across the state is not uniform, with the western portion typically receiving more snow than the eastern portion. This is due to the state’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which can influence the amount of snowfall received. The eastern part of the state, closer to the coast, tends to receive less snow due to the warming effect of the ocean. In contrast, the western part of the state, further inland, tends to be colder and receives more snow. So, the amount of snow can vary significantly depending on where you are in the state. Connecticut isn’t among the top 10 for the snowiest states in the US, although it’s quite close. Its immediate neighbors to the north and west, Massachusetts and New York, respectively, are both on the top 10 list.
What is the Snowiest Day on Record in Connecticut?
Holding the record for the most snow in a single day is both an honor and a curse. The most snow in 24 hours to ever be recorded happened in 2013. During that single day, the city of Ansonia received 36 inches of snow, setting a record that still holds today. The capital of Connecticut, Hartford, also has a record. In 1945, Hartford had the snowiest year in the city’s records. According to NOAA, the most snow that Hartford ever received in a calendar year is 92.4 inches or 7.7 feet.
How do People Handle the Snow in Connecticut?
Dealing with snow in a state like Connecticut can be a challenging task, especially during the long and cold winters. To keep the roads safe and clear, the state Department of Transportation (DOT) uses a variety of tactics and tools. One key strategy is to pre-treat the roads with salt and other chemicals before a storm hits. This prevents snow and ice from sticking to the pavement and makes it easier to clear once the storm passes. The DOT often uses liquid magnesium chloride to pre-wet the salt it applies to the roads. This helps the salt to stick to the pavement and increases its effectiveness. These chemicals are part of the reason that cars in the north rust much faster than cars in the south! In addition to salt, snowplows are an essential tool used to clear the roads. Without plows, roads would shut down all winter!
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