Providence, Rhode Island Shatters Blizzard Record with 37.9 Inches of Snow as Historic Nor’easter Buries Homes and Surpasses 1978 Storm

RHODE ISLAND — Providence has officially made history after a powerful bomb cyclone dumped 37.9 inches of snow, marking the largest blizzard total ever recorded in the city and surpassing the legendary Blizzard of 1978.

The record-breaking snowfall came as a massive Nor’easter intensified rapidly offshore, strengthening into what meteorologists classify as a bomb cyclone — a storm that deepens explosively over a short period of time. The result was relentless snowfall rates, powerful winds, and staggering drifts across the region.

Record Surpasses the Blizzard of 1978

For decades, the Blizzard of 1978 stood as the benchmark winter storm for Rhode Island. That storm paralyzed the region and became a defining moment in New England weather history.

Now, with 37.9 inches officially recorded in Providence, the city has surpassed that historic mark — rewriting its snowfall record books in dramatic fashion.

Homes and Neighborhoods Buried

The impact has been nothing short of extraordinary. One Providence resident woke up to find their garage door completely buried shut by towering snowdrifts. Images show a wall of compacted snow blocking the entire exit, creating a frozen barrier several feet high.

Scenes like this are being repeated across the city, where plows are struggling to keep up with massive accumulations and wind-driven snow.

Snow depths of this magnitude can:

• Collapse weaker structures
• Block emergency access
• Delay snow removal efforts
• Create dangerous roof loads

Winds and Drifts Add to the Damage

Beyond snowfall totals, strong winds intensified the storm’s impact. Wind gusts whipped snow into drifts far deeper than the measured 37.9 inches in some areas.

Blizzard conditions likely reduced visibility to near zero at times, making travel nearly impossible. Roads across Providence and surrounding communities remain snow-covered as crews work to clear primary routes.

Recovery Efforts Underway

With the storm finally moving away, the focus now shifts to cleanup and recovery. Residents are being urged to use caution while clearing snow, as heavy, wet accumulations can increase the risk of injury.

Officials also remind homeowners to:

• Clear vents and exhaust pipes
• Watch for roof stress
• Avoid overexertion when shoveling
• Check on elderly neighbors

The storm’s historic snowfall will likely be discussed for decades, much like the Blizzard of 1978 before it.

Providence has officially entered the record books — and the images of buried homes and snow-blocked garages serve as a powerful reminder of just how extreme this Nor’easter became. For continued national weather coverage and major storm updates, stay connected with NapervilleLocal.com.