The Great Blizzard of 1987: Heavy Snow Closes Schools from DC to Maine

Setting the Stage for the Blizzard of 1987

Winter Strikes the Mid-Atlantic

In February 1987, a fierce winter storm blanketed the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, leaving a lasting impact on daily life. The storm is part of a series of weather events that transformed regional expectations of winter, with significant snowfall accumulating from Washington D.C. to Maine. Citizens prepared for snow that was more than just a typical winter inconvenience.

A Widespread Impact on Education

As the snow began to fall heavily, schools across the affected states were forced to close their doors. This included major districts in Washington D.C., Virginia, Maryland, and extending all the way up to Maine. The closures not only made headlines but also highlighted the challenging logistics of keeping schools open during severe winter conditions.

The Aftermath and Community Response

Winter Wonderland or Disaster?

Following the storm, communities responded with a blend of disappointment and excitement. Children reveled in the unexpected snow days, building forts and enjoying sledding. However, the storm also created challenges for adults who had to navigate the aftermath—shoveling driveways, clearing roads, and dealing with the aftermath of disrupted schedules.

Lessons Learned from the Blizzard

The blizzard of 1987 served as a reminder of nature's unpredictability. Local governments evaluated their response systems regarding emergency preparedness, particularly about the transportation of students. The event became a learning experience that shaped how future snowstorms were handled across the northeast.

Fun Fact

The Blizzard's Biggest Snowfall

The snowfall was so intense that some areas reported accumulations exceeding 2 feet. It was one of the heaviest snowfalls recorded in a single storm for the region, and it left a white blanket of snow that took weeks to fully clear.