Posted in Maine November 08, 2018 by Michelle

It’s Impossible To Forget The Year Maine Saw Its Single Largest Snowfall Ever

Last year’s winter was pretty unbelievable. Between the near-constant freezing temps and the snowfall that didn’t seem to stop, it may have felt like the worst winter season in the state’s history. But, it sure wasn’t! While it looks like this year’s winter might be surprising, we’re hoping it’s not like the winter Maine once experienced. The snowiest winter in Vacationland history was recorded in 2008 and it wasn’t pretty.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate

There have been a dizzying amount of snowstorms in Maine that contribute to yearly snowfall levels that break records.

While most people can recall what they believe was the worst in their hometown, there is only one record-breaking storm to hit the state that has officially earned the distinction of being Maine's single largest snowfall.

It wasn't the Blizzard of 1978. Nor was it the "Storm of the Century" that hit in 1993.

Nope. The heaviest single snowfall ever recorded was seen in 2013 during Winter Storm Nemo.

Between 2 and 3 feet of snow fell southern and central Maine over the course of February 8th and 9th.

Portland International Jetport saw 31.9 inches of snow, while Gorham saw the worst of it at 35.5 inches.

What made this storm particularly difficult was mix of heavy snowfall, incredibly high winds as well as the fact that the storm took almost 36 hours to actually clear out.

Winds were also incredibly high, with the strongest sustained winds reaching as high as 77 mph in Matinicus. Areas like Portland and Augusta also measured huge gusts of wind at around 50 mph.

There have certainly been harsh storms since 2013, but the next time you feel like you're stuck in the midst of an endlessly snowy winter in Maine remember that it'll take a lot to surpass Winter Storm Nemo in 2013.

While we’re still enjoying fall, winter will be here soon. To fully enjoy it, here’s a town you might want to check out. It turns into an absolute winter wonderland and it’s magical!