Minnesota's extreme November
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the state's agency devoted to environmental matters, describes the weather conditions of Nov. 28, 1960 as one of the most catastrophic flooding events in history. According to the department, Grand Marais experienced the worst of the impacts from a combined blizzard and storm that dropped one foot of snow in one day, generated 73 mile-per-hour winds and stirred 20- to 40-foot waves in Lake Superior, leading to three feet of water in the streets.
Homes and offices that did not keep up with snow removal throughout the storm or seal and winterize their structures beforehand were likely the most damaged of all. It is important to beware that severe flooding from winter storms can come as early as November, and homeowners must prepare accordingly.
Record river floods
The Western Regional Climate Center (WRCC), a group that focuses on weather research and awareness, points to February 1996 as one of the most-devastating winter months on record for Washington, Oregon and Idaho. A combination of unprecedented snow and rainfall in a short period of time, following high amounts of snow in December and January, caused the disaster.
WRCC states that the region saw $800 million in damages and several deaths. The organization also noted that some of the highest levels of water ever recorded in the region's rivers were a direct result of the mixture of early winter snowfall, sudden blizzard conditions and historic rain fall.
Always remember that if you live near a river, stream, creek or virtually any body of water, you will be more at risk of experiencing a major flood, especially in the winter. Take the necessary precautions to protect your home, and make sure you have flood insurance coverage when living in these environments.
Billions in losses
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the federal entity responsible for climate research, reports that the West Coast saw between 10 and 40 inches of rain over a two-week period in January 1997. This precipitation fell on California, Washington, Nevada, Idaho, Oregon and Montana, adding to snow melt in some areas and causing $4.5 billion in damages.
When heavy rain follows heavy snow, unprecedented flooding can happen virtually without any warning. Take every measure necessary to protect your family, your home, your vehicles and yourself this winter.