Understanding the February 2013 North American Blizzard: Winter Storm Nemo

The February 2013 North American blizzard, widely recognized as Winter Storm Nemo and often simply referred to as the Blizzard of 2013, was an exceptionally powerful and far-reaching extratropical cyclone, or nor'easter, that left a significant mark on the Northeastern United States and parts of Atlantic Canada. This formidable storm, characterized by its combination of intense snowfall, crippling blizzard conditions, and hurricane-force wind gusts, originated from the complex interaction of two distinct low-pressure systems. Its impact was so profound that it was classified as a "Major" Winter Storm, earning a Category 3 ranking on the Northeast Snowfall Impact Scale (NESIS), a scale developed by the National Climatic Data Center to assess the impact of snowstorms in the Northeast by considering factors like area affected, snow amounts, and population. Uniquely for a North American system of this magnitude, the remnants of Winter Storm Nemo even traversed the Atlantic Ocean, bringing less severe but noticeable effects to Ireland and the United Kingdom days later.

The Genesis of a Powerful Nor'easter: Two Merging Systems

The genesis of this impactful blizzard was a classic convergence of atmospheric forces. The first contributing low-pressure system began its journey across the Northern Plains of the United States. As it moved eastward, it delivered moderate amounts of snow across the Great Lakes region of both the U.S. and Canada, setting the stage for colder air. Simultaneously, a second, more moisture-laden low originated over the state of Texas. This southern system initially tracked northeastward, bringing heavy rains and localized flooding across much of the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the U.S. The pivotal moment occurred on February 8, 2013, when these two disparate systems converged and rapidly intensified off the Northeast coast. This merger created a potent storm engine, drawing in vast amounts of moisture from the Atlantic while simultaneously pulling cold air southward, resulting in an expansive band of incredibly heavy snowfall. This deluge blanketed a vast region, stretching from North Jersey and inland areas of New York City, through the entirety of eastern New England, up to coastal Maine, and even extending inland into Ontario, Canada.

Record-Breaking Snowfall, Hurricane-Force Winds, and Coastal Impact

Winter Storm Nemo delivered historic snowfall totals across many areas, paralyzing transportation and daily life. The accumulation figures were staggering, with several locations reporting record or near-record amounts:

• In **Boston, Massachusetts**, the official snowfall total reached an impressive 24.9 inches (63 cm), making it the fifth-highest snowfall ever recorded in the city's history.
• **New York City** officially measured 11.4 inches (29 cm) of snow at its Central Park reporting station.
• **Portland, Maine**, experienced a particularly severe hit, setting a new record for the city with 31.9 inches (81 cm) of snow.
• The highest snowfall total from the storm was recorded in **Hamden, Connecticut**, where a remarkable 40 inches (100 cm) fell.
• Close behind, **Milford, Connecticut**, received 38 inches (97 cm), marking the second-highest total in the state.

Beyond the prolific snowfall, the blizzard unleashed hurricane-force wind gusts that compounded the destructive potential. These extreme winds contributed to widespread power outages and significant coastal damage:

• In **Nova Scotia, Canada**, wind gusts peaked at an astonishing 102 mph (164 km/h).
• **Mount Desert Rock, Maine**, a remote island off the coast, recorded gusts of 89 mph (143 km/h).
• Off the coast of **Cuttyhunk, Massachusetts**, gusts reached 84 mph (135 km/h).

The coastal areas also contended with a significant storm surge. Boston, Massachusetts, experienced a surge of 4.2 feet (1.3 meters), which ranked as its fourth-highest ever recorded, leading to coastal flooding. After devastating the Northeastern United States, the storm continued its eastward trajectory, significantly impacting Atlantic Canada with its severe weather conditions.

Widespread Disruption and Human Toll

In anticipation of Winter Storm Nemo's arrival, authorities across the affected regions took extensive preparatory measures. Watches and warnings were issued well in advance, urging residents to prepare. State governors in all states across New England, including Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, as well as New York, declared states of emergency, enabling a quicker governmental response and resource deployment. The severity of the forecast prompted unprecedented travel restrictions; flights at many major airports throughout the region were canceled, and strict travel bans were implemented on February 8, 2013, across several states, effectively shutting down roadways to non-emergency vehicles. Despite these warnings, the rapid accumulation of snow led to challenging situations, with hundreds of individuals finding themselves stranded on Long Island late on February 8, unable to navigate the impassable roads. The combination of fierce winds and the heavy, wet nature of the accumulating snow proved devastating to power infrastructure, leaving an estimated 700,000 customers without electricity at the height of the storm, some for an extended period. Tragically, at least eighteen deaths were directly attributed to the blizzard, highlighting the severe human cost of this powerful winter event.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the February 2013 Blizzard

What was the February 2013 North American blizzard also known as?

The February 2013 North American blizzard was widely known as Winter Storm Nemo and sometimes simply referred to as the Blizzard of 2013.

Which regions were primarily affected by Winter Storm Nemo?

The storm primarily affected the Northeastern United States and parts of Atlantic Canada. Its remnants also crossed the Atlantic, impacting Ireland and the United Kingdom.

How was the blizzard classified on the Northeast Snowfall Impact Scale (NESIS)?

The nor'easter's effects in the United States received a Category 3 rank on the Northeast Snowfall Impact Scale (NESIS), classifying it as a "Major" Winter Storm.

What caused the February 2013 blizzard?

The blizzard developed from the powerful merger of two distinct low-pressure systems: one originating from the Northern Plains (bringing colder air and moderate snow) and another from Texas (carrying significant moisture and initially heavy rain and flooding).

What were some of the highest snowfall totals recorded during Winter Storm Nemo?

Hamden, Connecticut, recorded the highest snowfall with 40 inches (100 cm). Other notable totals included 24.9 inches (63 cm) in Boston, Massachusetts, and a record 31.9 inches (81 cm) in Portland, Maine.

Were there hurricane-force winds during the storm?

Yes, hurricane-force wind gusts were recorded. Peak gusts included 102 mph (164 km/h) in Nova Scotia, 89 mph (143 km/h) at Mount Desert Rock, Maine, and 84 mph (135 km/h) off the coast of Cuttyhunk, Massachusetts.

How many customers lost power during the blizzard?

At the height of the storm, a combination of strong winds and heavy, wet snow left approximately 700,000 customers without electricity.

Were there fatalities associated with Winter Storm Nemo?

Yes, at least eighteen deaths were attributed to the storm.