In 1979, January started off with a bang, and winter remained unrelenting for the rest of the month. Storm after storm had significant effects on both the temperature trends and snowfall totals across the state. The winter of ’77-’78 had been a rough one, but during January of ’79 residents of America’s dairyland were clobbered again.
In January 1979, southeastern Wisconsin faced a series of severe winter weather events that had a significant impact on the region. The month began with a New Year’s Day blizzard that swept through the area, followed by subsequent snowstorms that brought heavy snowfall throughout the month.
The New Year’s Day blizzard of 1979 hit cities like Milwaukee and Madison, causing widespread disruptions of daily life. While schools were scheduled to be closed anyway for Christmas break, the blizzard brought strong winds, heavy snowfall, and reduced visibility, essentially halting daily activities as people were forced to stay indoors. Snow totals from the blizzard varied across the region, with some areas receiving as much as 14 inches.
Following the New Year’s Day blizzard, additional snowstorms continued to blanket southeastern Wisconsin throughout the of January. Milwaukee experienced a total snowfall 19.8 inches for the month, significantly surpassing the monthly average.
You may hear a lot about recent extreme weather, but January 1979 in Wisconsin was marked by frigid temperatures, above-average snowfall, and substantial impacts on Wisconsinites’ daily lives. The weather conditions decades ago also tested the resilience of individuals and communities.
There was no place for the snow to go. Residents piled the snow as high as they could, and local governments struggled to keep even the main streets clear.
Green Bay experienced even greater snowfall totals during January ’79. The city received a total of 25.5 inches of snow, which was well above the average for the month. Superior encountered the highest snowfall totals in January 1979, with remarkable 42.5 inches of snow accumulating throughout the month.
As if the snow wasn’t bad enough, bitterly cold temperatures also gripped the region. Throughout much of the state, below-average daily temperatures and several periods of subzero temperatures were common. In fact, the National Weather Service reported that January 1979 was one of the coldest on record for Wisconsin.
The heavy snowfall and prolonged cold temperatures also brought economic challenges to the region. Increased heating placed a strain on energy consumption, resulting in higher energy bills for both individuals and businesses already battling an energy crisis and inflation. Construction projects were delayed to the adverse weather conditions, and even the tourism industry in winter recreational areas a significant downturn as people deterred from traveling in the extreme weather.
Despite the hardships brought about by the severe weather, the residents of Wisconsin exhibited resilience and resourcefulness. Communities came together to support one another during this challenging period. Neighbors helped with snow removal, families shared resources to combat rising heating costs, and local organizations organized warming centers to provide relief for those without adequate shelter or heat.
Ask anyone over 50, January 1979 was a doozy.
