I. Introduction
Winter can be a season of beauty and wonder, but it can also bring challenges and disruptions to daily life. For some states in the U.S., heavy snowfall is a yearly reality that shapes the economy, transportation, and local culture. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the top 10 snowiest states in the U.S. and their impact on individuals and the economy.
II. The Top 10 Snowiest States in the U.S.
Let’s start our listicle of the top 10 snowiest states in the U.S.
- Alaska – With vast tundras and glaciers, Alaska is not only the biggest state in the U.S., but also the snowiest. Its largest city, Anchorage, sees an average of 74 inches of snowfall per year.
- Washington – Known for its lush forests and coffee culture, Washington state is also famous for its mountain ranges that receive tremendous amounts of snow. The North Cascades Highway typically receives around 450 inches of snow each year.
- Minnesota – One of the coldest states in the U.S., Minnesota receives heavy snowfall that shapes its identity and culture. The city of Duluth sees nearly 84 inches of snowfall per year.
- Michigan – A state that borders 4 out of 5 Great Lakes, Michigan receives significant amounts of lake-effect snow. The small town of Calumet sees an average of 207 inches of snowfall per year.
- Montana – With its rocky mountains and wilderness areas, Montana experiences heavy snowfall that shapes the local economy and lifestyle. The town of Libby sees an average of 91 inches of snowfall per year.
- New York – Home to the bustling city of New York, this state also boasts picturesque mountain ranges that receive annual snowfall. The town of Saranac Lake sees an average of 93.3 inches of snowfall per year.
- Vermont – Renowned for its ski resorts and maple syrup, Vermont receives heavy snowfall that shapes its identity and attracts tourists. The town of Mount Mansfield sees an average of 221 inches of snowfall per year.
- Wisconsin – Another cold state that receives significant amounts of lake-effect snow, Wisconsin is no stranger to snow-covered landscapes. The town of Hurley sees an average of 161 inches of snowfall per year.
- New Hampshire – With its dense forests and rocky coastlines, New Hampshire witnesses a picturesque winter season with heavy snowfall. The town of Pittsburg sees an average of 161 inches of snowfall per year.
- Maine – One of the most popular states for winter sports and activities, Maine receives significant amounts of snowfall that shapes the economy and local culture. The town of Caribou sees an average of 108 inches of snowfall per year.
III. Yearly Snowfall Averages
Now that we have listed the top 10 snowiest states, let’s analyze the yearly snowfall averages for each state.
| Rank | State | Average Snowfall per Year (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alaska | 94.5 |
| 2 | Washington | 85.9 |
| 3 | Minnesota | 57.4 |
| 4 | Michigan | 51.4 |
| 5 | Montana | 52.9 |
| 6 | New York | 61.5 |
| 7 | Vermont | 90.7 |
| 8 | Wisconsin | 46.7 |
| 9 | New Hampshire | 66.3 |
| 10 | Maine | 50.9 |
As we can see from the table above, Alaska is the snowiest state in the U.S., with an average yearly snowfall of 94.5 inches, followed closely by Vermont with 90.7 inches. Michigan has the lowest average yearly snowfall on our list, with 51.4 inches per year.
IV. Snowfall Data over the Last Decade
Now, let’s compare the snowfall data from the last decade for the top 5 snowiest states.
| State | 2010-2011 | 2011-2012 | 2012-2013 | 2013-2014 | 2014-2015 | 2015-2016 | 2016-2017 | 2017-2018 | 2018-2019 | 2019-2020 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | 92.8 | 110.8 | 68.3 | 89.5 | 69.5 | 57.2 | 94.2 | 72.4 | 105.6 | 59.6 |
| Washington | 105.8 | 144.8 | 102.3 | 127.7 | 96.5 | 69.1 | 104.8 | 103.8 | 77.6 | 120.1 |
| Minnesota | 67.7 | 29.8 | 78.5 | 50.9 | 62.8 | 23.2 | 72.5 | 37.8 | 87.7 | 89.5 |
| Michigan | 99.4 | 45.3 | 108.2 | 56.7 | 66.9 | 40.4 | 58.9 | 65.7 | 84.3 | 58.1 |
| Montana | 82.6 | 63.2 | 62.4 | 99.4 | 98.0 | 74.9 | 78.3 | 53.8 | 43.4 | 72.9 |
From the table above, we can see that snowfall patterns vary greatly year to year, even for the same state. Overall, Alaska and Washington have seen fluctuations in snowfall over the past decade, while Minnesota, Michigan, and Montana have maintained a relatively consistent amount of snowfall each year.
V. Economic Impact of Heavy Snowfall
Heavy snowfall can have a significant impact on the economy of the top snowiest states. Let’s take a closer look at three of the most impacted states.
1. Alaska
Due to its remote location and heavy snowfall, Alaska has unique challenges when it comes to transportation and infrastructure. Snow removal costs in Alaska can be as high as $10 million per year, due to the need for specialized snow removal equipment and the vast territory covered by snow.
2. New York
The city of New York relies heavily on the tourism industry, and winter attractions such as skiing and snowmobiling are a significant draw for visitors. However, heavy snowfall can also disrupt transportation and cause significant delays and cancellations for travelers. During the 2014 “polar vortex” winter, New York City experienced nearly 70 inches of snowfall, causing $200 million in losses for airlines and other businesses.
3. Michigan
Michigan’s economy is heavily reliant on the automotive industry, and heavy snowfall can disrupt supply chains and transportation. In 2018, Michigan saw a particularly harsh winter with snowstorms and ice storms that caused nearly $250 million in damages to businesses and homes.
VI. Snow Removal Costs and Techniques
Removing snow can be a significant expense for states and individuals alike. Let’s compare and contrast snow removal costs and techniques between the top 2 snowiest states.
1. Alaska
Due to the harsh climate and vast territory, snow removal in Alaska can be a complex and expensive process. Helicopters are often used to drop explosives onto snow-covered slopes to trigger avalanches, and specialized snow removal equipment such as “snow dragons” and snow blowers are utilized to clear roads and sidewalks. The average cost for snow removal in Anchorage can range from $1 to $2 million per year, depending on snowfall levels.
2. Vermont
Vermont is known for its picturesque winter landscapes, but heavy snowfall can also disrupt daily routines and transportation. The most common snow removal technique in Vermont is plowing, with many towns and cities owning their own plows and equipment. However, this can still lead to expenses upwards of $500,000 per year for larger cities such as Burlington.
VII. Breathtaking Winter Landscapes
Despite the challenges that heavy snowfall can bring, the top snowiest states have a unique charm and beauty during the winter months.
From the rugged peaks of the North Cascades in Washington, to the frozen lakes of Minnesota, each of the top snowiest states has its own unique winter landscape.
VIII. Conclusion
While heavy snowfall can bring challenges to daily life and the economy, it also presents opportunities for winter sports and recreation, as well as unique cultural and natural attractions. As we have seen, snowfall patterns can fluctuate greatly year to year, even in the snowiest states in the U.S. By understanding the economic impact of heavy snowfall, learning about snow removal techniques and costs, and appreciating the beauty of winter landscapes, we can better prepare for and enjoy the winter season.
If you are a resident of one of the top snowiest states, remember to take necessary precautions during winter storms, such as dressing warmly, driving carefully, and preparing your home for possible power outages. If you are planning to visit one of the top snowiest states, make sure to pack warm clothing and plan for possible delays or disruptions due to heavy snowfall.
Winter is a season of change and transformation, and by appreciating the beauty and challenges that come with it, we can better understand and celebrate the world around us.