If you’ve spent decades in the city of Detroit, you’ve likely experienced your fair share of inclement weather throughout the years. From thunderstorms to tornado warnings, the Motor City is no stranger to less-than-ideal conditions. In 1974, however, one of the worst blizzards in Detroit’s history struck— and it will always be remembered.

November in 1974 was much like any other early winter in the bustling Motor City.
Flickr/Jamie
Temperatures were cold, but snowfall remained fairly typical compared to the annual average. As the month of December drew closer, Detroiters were excited for Christmas.
Flickr/Mike Boening Photography
On December 1st, however, the Motor City was pummelled with some of the most intense snowfall it had ever seen. The storm began in the wee hours of the morning.
Flickr/Dane
Forecasters had only predicted a few inches of snowfall— but they couldn’t have been more wrong. By the time the storm ended, the city had received over 19 inches of snow.
Flickr/SJ Carey

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Yes, you read that correctly: Detroit was blanketed in nearly 20 inches of snow, a record surpassed only by the 24 inches that fell during a blizzard in 1889.
Flickr/Stuart Rankin
Tragically, the aftermath of the snowstorm involved more than just a bit of cleanup. The blizzard ultimately left 27 Detroiters dead, 22 of heart attacks while shoveling.
Flickr/Logan Hicks
Schools were closed, streets were impossible to navigate, and businesses throughout the Motor City closed their doors as the blizzard made its way through town.
Flickr/Andrew Myers
For Detroiters who were children at the time, the 1974 blizzard is likely remembered with a sense of fondness. For others, the storm proved frightening (or even deadly). How do you remember this unique event?
Flickr/Ray Dumas

If you were in or around the Motor City during 1974’s massive snowstorm, we’d love to hear about your experiences. Was the storm a delight or a disaster for you and your family? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below, and stay safe this holiday season!

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