The Great Snowstorm of January 1920

The Great Snowstorm of January 1920 has gained the honor of bein the first event recorded by the SWWS. It was a powerful system that dumped 4 feet of snow, nearly a foot of ice, a foot of rain, cut power to 300,000, and killed 401 and injured 523 others.

Meteorogical History
An extratropical cyclone formed over North Western world province and was expected to cause clouds and showers over the North Central province. However, the storm intensified and moved southeast, merging with a January arctic blast. This caused the storm to hit hard with 40 MPH winds and heavy snowfall in the Northern areas of the Central province and far southern areas of the North Central province. Southern portions of the Central Province experienced heavy rainfall. On the night of January 10th, a powerful ice storm swept through areas between the rain and snow areas, leaving nearly a foot of ice on the ground.

Pre-impact Storm Report (CPWS)
Extratropical Cyclone expected to impact tomorrow. Heavy snow in northern areas of the Central province are expected, and heavy rain to the south. Estimates for snowfall are 16 inches, rain 2 inches. Expect blizzard conditions.

Pre-Impact Storm Report (NCWS)
Northern bands of extratropical cyclone expected to impact far southern regions of North Central province. Expect up to 14 inches of snowfall. Expect windy blizzard conditions.

Post-Impact Report (CPWS)
An extratropical cyclone ravaged the region over the last 4 days. Original reports predicted 16 inches of snowfall, but 4 feet of snow was measured after blizzard conditions ceased Sunday evening. Southern areas of the Central province have reported a foot of rain. On Saturday night, a powerful ice storm occured on the area between the snow and rain portins of the system, leaving nearly a foot of ice on the ground. Highest recorded winds were 55 MPH.

Post-Impact Report (NCWS)
An extratropical cyclone brushed southern portions of the North Central province. Initial post impact reports predicted 14 inches of snowfall. Impacted areas saw 10-12 inches of snow. There was no ice accumulation or rain accumulation in the region. Highest recorded winds were 43 MPH.