Columbia Remembers the Great Southeastern Snowstorm of 1973

News Summary

On February 11, 2023, Columbia, South Carolina, commemorates the 52nd anniversary of the Great Southeastern Snowstorm. This major blizzard, which occurred from February 9 to 11, 1973, left an unforgettable mark on the region, blanketing areas in snow and disrupting daily life. South Carolina experienced its significant impact, particularly in the Midlands and Myrtle Beach, where residents recall the challenges and community spirit that emerged during this historic event. Reflecting on the storm, locals remember the rare beauty and disruptions that transformed their everyday lives.

Columbia Remembers the Great Southeastern Snowstorm: A Look Back at the Blizzard of 1973

Columbia, South Carolina – February 11, 2023, marks a significant milestone in history as it is the 52nd anniversary of a remarkable event that left a lasting impression on the Palmetto State. This event is none other than the Great Southeastern Snowstorm, a blizzard that brought South Carolina to a standstill and blanketed the region in white during a rare winter wonder.

The Beginning of the Storm

The blizzard unfolded over a three-day period, from February 9 to February 11, 1973. The weather story begins with a cold front that swept through the region, bringing in colder-than-normal northerly air. This was the essential ingredient for the storm to materialize. As the cold front stalled over the Atlantic Ocean and Florida, it gave birth to a low-pressure area that ultimately ignited the blizzard. Moisture from the Gulf of Mexico surged northward, rolling over the Southeast and transforming into ice, sleet, and, of course, snow as the temperatures plummeted.

A Snowy Canvas Across the Southeast

The expansiveness of this snowstorm was nothing short of spectacular. It wasn’t just confined to South Carolina, but instead stretched from Texas to Florida and right up to Virginia. Each region experienced its own share of snow, but South Carolina was particularly affected. The Midlands region saw the most astounding snowfall totals, with areas like Rimini receiving an eye-popping two feet of snow, making it the site of the most snowfall recorded during this storm.

Snowfall Totals in a Variety of Regions

Other counties were not left out of the snowy celebrations. Heavy snowfall painted a band across several areas from Barnwell and Bamberg Counties all the way to Florence County. The Grand Strand region, known primarily for its sandy beaches rather than snow, also saw about a foot of snow accumulate, a spectacle for residents and visitors alike. The Pee Dee and Border Belt regions experienced varying snowfall totals ranging from one to two feet, leaving many locals marveling at the rare sight.

A Historic Event in Myrtle Beach

For the cities of Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach, the Great Southeastern Snowstorm is etched into meteorological history as the second-largest snowfall event. The first place belongs to the famous snowfall that occurred on Christmas in 1989. Snowfall is rarely seen in these coastal areas, making each winter wonderland event particularly memorable. Another snowfall event did occur in January 2025, but nothing has matched the magnitude of the blizzard in 1973.

Disruptions and Memories

The blizzard didn’t just create a winter wonderland; it also caused significant disruptions. Many roads were closed due to the dramatic accumulation of snow, leading to a halt in travel and everyday activities. Residents can still remember the challenges of navigating through the snow and the community spirit that arose as neighbors helped each other dig out from the white stuff.

Commemoration and Legacy

As time passes, the historic nature of the Great Southeastern Snowstorm continues to leave its mark on South Carolina. Meteorological records still recognize the unprecedented impacts this event had on the region. On this anniversary, many locals reflect on that unforgettable winter of 1973, where snowflakes fell not just from the sky but into the hearts of those who witnessed it.

Indeed, as we dive into February once again this year, the memory of the blizzard continues to warm our hearts, especially as we cherish those unique moments when nature brings a touch of magic to our everyday lives.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Pee Dee Region Disappointed by Lack of Snowfall
East Coast Braces for Intense Winter Weather, Arctic Blast and Lake-Effect Snowstorm Predicted to Disrupt Post-Thanksgiving Travel

Additional Resources

• WPDE: 52 Years Ago Today, One of the Biggest South Carolina Snowstorms
• Weather.com: Winter Storm Live Blog
• Washington Post: Deep South Winter Storm
• Only In Your State: Massive Blizzard of 1973
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Snowstorm