As a New Jersey native I thought snow did not exist in the South. I just imagined it always warm, full of sunshine, and relaxed people. Upon moving to Virginia, I learned that the South does indeed get some inclement weather from time to time. Although I argue that it is nothing compared to the North. I laugh when the state shuts down over two inches, but I can also see why. There are some major differences about snow in the North vs. the South. Additionally, there are things you should now about each region. Here are 4 things you should know about snow in the South.
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1. The South Is Not Immune From Snow
First thing you should know about snow in the South is that it actually snows in the South. I know it sounds redundant but hey, a lot of Northerners like me didn't know. If you are someone who is moving further down in the states to avoid that harsh weather just be warned. Depending on your chosen state you may not be immune. If the air is cold enough and there is enough moisture in the air, then snow could result. According to Weather.com "January and February are when winter storms are most common in the South." So if you live in the South or are planning a trip there, be weary of those months.
2. It Ain't Nothing Like The North
While you are not immune from the cool weather and occasional snowfall, on average it will be nothing compared to the North. When I lived in New Jersey, snowfall meant at least a foot. If it was anything under no one bothered to mention it because it didn't affect anything. In the South the average snowfall is around 1 inch per season. Although I will admit that we did get a good foot of snow just this past January here in Virginia. So again...it can happen. However on average the amount of snowfall is really more of a dusting, and naturally the further down you go the less snow you will see.
3. Ice Is A Bigger Problem Than You Think
It is warmer in the South. That means that the snow melts faster than it does up North. While that may seem like a good thing, melting snow and then freezing temperatures at night leads to something dangerous — ice. Additionally, while snow is not all that common sleet or freezing rain are often seen in the South. Weather.com shares, "Heavy amounts of freezing rain accumulations have historically been very impactful for parts of the South and led to tree damage and widespread power outages."
4. They Are Not As Prepared
If you are a Northerner one thing you need to know about snow in the South is that they are not as well equipped for it. Because they do not get as much snowfall as the North, they do not have all of the machinery and preparations that we have in the North. For example, with this last snowfall in Virginia, it took over four days before a plow truck came through our neighborhood. Even then he just salted, didn't plow.
The main roads are better taken care of, but not like they are in the North. While trucks will go out and salt and plow, it is more as a result of the snow rather than in anticipation for it. Also, expect everything to be closed. We got two inches last year and my chiropractor was closed, some grocery stores, and various other facilities. All of them had signs that said, "closed due to inclement weather." So yea, just be prepared for that.
How To Survive Snow In The South
Now that you know about those four things there is one other thing you should know — how to survive snow in the South. While it may seem silly to prepare for two or three inches remember, that is a big deal down here. Additionally, you may surprised at how you lose power over such inconsequential amounts, so it is best to be prepared. To prepare for snow in the South you should have the following items stocked up next time you know a storm is coming.
- Nonperishable food and water
- External battery packs — and extra batteries
- Lanterns and candles
- Blankets
- Flashlight
Additionally if you know you are prone to lose power prepare ahead of time by trying to heat up the warmest room in your house, insulating the doors, and or considering a generator.
