Winter storm Enzo has brought an extraordinary mix of snow and ice to the southeastern United States, shattering records and paralyzing travel from New Orleans to northern Florida. This rare event has delivered historic snowfall totals, transformed landscapes, and left communities grappling with the storm’s impact.
A Historic Weather Event for the Southeast
The storm has delivered unprecedented snowfall to regions unaccustomed to such conditions. As of late Tuesday night, Babbie, Alabama, reported 11 inches of snow, setting a new record for the state. Nearby Chalmette, Louisiana, saw 11.5 inches, while Milton, Florida, recorded 8.8 inches, likely breaking the state snowfall record of 4 inches set in 1954.
In New Orleans, snowfall exceeded twice the previous record, blanketing Bourbon Street and Canal Street in white. Residents embraced the novelty, with impromptu snowball fights, skiing, and even ice hockey amidst a festive atmosphere.
Rare Conditions Bring Challenges to Southern States
Winter storm warnings and advisories remain in effect across much of the Southeast. These alerts warn of treacherous travel conditions caused by snow, ice, and strong winds. Tuesday night saw additional accumulations in Georgia, northern Florida, and the Carolinas, where hazardous conditions are expected to persist through early Wednesday.
Northeast Florida and southeast Georgia are particularly vulnerable to ice accumulation, with risks of tree damage and power outages. Snowfall estimates project several more inches in parts of Georgia and the Carolinas before the storm dissipates.
State-by-State Impacts and Records
Texas
Snowfall extended as far south as Brownsville, with Houston receiving over 4 inches. The state also faced ice-related power outages and gusts up to 44 mph.
Louisiana
Southern Louisiana experienced its first-ever blizzard warning, with New Orleans recording its heaviest snowfall since 1948. Snow drifts reached the Gulf Coast, creating an extraordinary scene.
Alabama
Mobile broke its one-day snowfall record with 5.4 inches. The city is nearing its all-time event record of 6 inches, set in 1895.
Mississippi
Heavy snowfall blanketed Biloxi with up to 9 inches in some areas. Snow-covered beaches created a stark contrast to typical Gulf Coast scenes.
Florida
Milton shattered its previous record with nearly 9 inches of snow, making this storm a historic event for the Sunshine State.
Georgia and the Carolinas
Southwest Georgia towns like Blakely and Leesburg received up to 7 inches of snow. The Carolinas saw lighter accumulations, with some areas reporting 2 to 3 inches.
What’s Next for the Southeast?
The worst of winter storm Enzo is expected to subside by early Wednesday, but lingering effects will continue to impact travel and daily life. Hazardous road conditions, especially in areas with significant ice accumulation, will require time and effort to address.
As the Southeast recovers from this rare and impactful winter storm, meteorologists and residents alike will reflect on the event’s historic nature and its implications for future weather preparedness in the region.
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