New Orleans saw a record breaking amount of snowfall yesterday, with some areas getting as much as 10 inches. My initial reaction at seeing the various social media posts was, "Get a grip everyone!" Bars, restaurants and shops, essential and non-essential, were closing as early as 9PM on Monday, 8-12 hours before the first flakes were about to drop. Some mentioned the chill and urged people to stay inside at a point when the temperature was still in the low 40's. I was reading this a few minutes before I was headed to the grocery store where my neighborhood's wind chill was a balmy 3 degrees.
But then my man Stanton Moore, as well as a few others, explained, New Orleans never sees this. The last time there was any measurable snowfall in the French Quarter was 1895, I believe. New Orleans residents don't have snow shovels handy, or ice melt, or snow boots. Many don't even have winter clothes. There's little need. I've been in New Orleans a few times in December. It was in the high 50's. When put into perspective, I could understand the shock, the panic, and in many cases, the joy. I imagine a snow covered French Quarter is quite beautiful compared to a black and yellow snow covered Times Square.
This morning, NYC is waking up to a wind chill feels like temperature of 15 below. I won't be playing my drum pad on the porch like Stanton Moore, or standing outside with a big smile on my face like George Porter Jr.. But I love how they are making the best of a once in a lifetime weather event. That's New Orleans for ya.
8 comments:
Just hope that everyone in NO stays safe and warm. Since they don't have shovels and plows that snow is going to stick around for a while
Temperatures in New Orleans should be up near 50 by tomorrow and the 70's by the weekend. There will be puddles!
Most areas in NO had at least 10". I lived in NO for 60 years and the total snow accumulation during my time there was not more than 6". At my son's house in Lafayette, he got 13".
Yeah, Birmingham AL goes into a panic at the suggestion of snow or ice. But like New Orleans, they almost never see it and with hilly areas and no snow tires and no preparations for road clearing or anything, they really do grind to a halt for good reason. It's funny, but understandable. But 10 inches? That would astound them. Trust New Orleans to make the most of it.
Yeah you white!
Where we are in the NYC area -- Sal too -- is scheduled for six inches starting Sunday (I think). The only upside is that a few years ago I bought a very expensive pair of high end snow boots, and I don't think I've worn them more than three times since, so....
Hey Pal. I'm seeing a 3% chance of precip, with temperatures close to 40. Are you sure?
I"m getting real confused a lot these days.
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