2017: A Year in Review

2018-01-15 11:13:40.000 – Tom Padham, Weather Observer/Education Specialist

Now that we’re a few weeks into 2018 I had some time to take a look back at the year that was. 2017 had several memorable moments, including 138 mph winds during an intense Nor’easter in March, along with several direct lightning strikes from summer thunderstorms. This past winter was an especially snowy one, and at one point in early February we were even on pace with the record-breaking winter of 1968-1968, which saw 566” of snow accumulate. We still ended the snow season 100” above average, with 32 feet of snow for the year!

Most memorable to me was an epic May snowstorm. Snow started on the 13^th and fell heavily all day for Mother’s Day, May 14^th. 22.8” fell in just 24 hours, with a 33.3″ storm-total breaking the all-time May snowstorm record over our 85-year history. The snow also fell with relatively light winds, making for huge drifts on the summit and lots of fun outside!

2017 goes down as our 8^th warmest (tied with 1999 and 2005) year in our 85 year history. Our climate graph is now updated on our website:

Other stats from 2017:

Average yearly temperature: 29.0°F

Departure from 30-year mean: +1.3°F

Lowest temperature: -35°F on March 11^th

Highest temperature: 67°F on Sept 26th

Highest wind: E 138 mph on March 14^th

Days with hurricane force (74+ mph) winds: 167 days (46% of the year!)

Days with 100+ mph winds: 43 days

Total Precipitation: 91.12”

Departure from mean: -5.75”

Total Snowfall: 388”

Departure from mean: +107”

Tom Padham, Weather Observer/Education Specialist

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