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Blizzard of '78 Remains Seared in New England's Memory as 2026 Storm Breaks Snow Records
The 1978 blizzard was a devastating storm that caught many off guard, while the 2026 blizzard has already surpassed the historic snowfall totals.
Published on Feb. 24, 2026
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The blizzard of 1978 buried New England under several feet of snow and remains seared into the minds of many to this day. The blizzard of 2026 has already broken a state snowfall record set during the infamous and unforgettable Blizzard of 1978, which buried New England under feet of snow. About 100 deaths were blamed on the 1978 storm across the East Coast, and over 4,500 people were injured.
Why it matters
The Blizzard of '78 was so devastating due to the apparent suddenness of its arrival, as weather forecasts at the time were more rudimentary and information was often several hours old by the time it reached plow crews. This storm highlighted the need for improved weather forecasting and communication technology to better prepare communities for major weather events.
The details
The 1978 blizzard struck on Feb. 6, 1978, when weather forecasts suggested a blizzard that rampaged across the Midwest could meet another storm heading up from the southern coast, covering the area in snow on that Monday morning. However, when morning came and there was no snow, skeptical New Englanders treated the workday like business as usual. By the time the snow actually began to fall, and it became clear it wouldn't stop, it was far too late. Thousands of people who ventured onto roads couldn't make it home, buried in the swiftly falling snow. The interstate highway system was shut down for a week, along with local driving bans, and recovery efforts took significant resources from the National Guard and cost hundreds of millions of dollars.
- The Blizzard of 1978 struck on February 6, 1978.
- The Blizzard of 2026 has already broken a snowfall record set during the Blizzard of 1978 in Rhode Island.
The players
Michael Dukakis
The governor of Massachusetts at the time of the Blizzard of 1978, who declared a state of emergency as the storm was peaking.
National Weather Service
The agency that provided weather forecasts and updates to state transportation departments during the Blizzard of 1978, though the information was often several hours old by the time it reached plow crews.
What’s next
The National Weather Service and emergency management agencies are likely reviewing the lessons learned from the Blizzard of 1978 and the 2026 storm to improve forecasting, communication, and response efforts for future major winter storms in the region.
The takeaway
The Blizzard of 1978 remains a seminal event in New England's history, highlighting the need for advancements in weather forecasting and communication technology to better prepare communities for severe winter storms. The 2026 blizzard, which has already broken snowfall records, serves as a reminder of the region's vulnerability to these types of extreme weather events.
