A look back at 20 of the biggest winter storms to hit the US in the last century
Business Insider
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The US has experienced some of the most devastating winter storms in history, causing widespread fatalities, billions in damage, and significant infrastructure changes. These events have shaped how cities prepare for extreme weather, from updating building codes after the Knickerbocker Theatre collapse during a 1922 blizzard to improving weather forecasting accuracy following the Armistice Day Blizzard of 1940.
Among these storms, the Great Appalachian Storm of 1950 stands out as one of the deadliest, killing over 383 people and depositing up to 62 inches of snow in affected areas. The storm's high winds and heavy snowfall led to widespread power outages and highlighted the need for better disaster response strategies.
More recently, Winter Storm Fern in 2026 disrupted nearly half the country, blanketing parts of New England with over a foot of snow and icing roads across the Southeast. This event underscores the ongoing challenge of predicting and managing severe winter weather, which continues to impact transportation, utilities, and businesses nationwide.
From collapsing buildings to stranded vehicles and power outages, these storms have proven their ability to halt daily life and cost millions in damages. For businesses, such disruptions can lead to significant financial losses due to supply chain interruptions, flight cancellations, and property damage. Understanding the historical context of these events provides valuable insights into preparing for future crises, ensuring safer communities and more resilient infrastructure.
The recurring theme across these snowstorms is their profound impact on both lives and economies. As climate patterns shift, the frequency and intensity of such events may
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/23/2026