Rival Texas Beauties: A Tale of Two Februarys

Photographer: Susan Howard
Summary Author: Susan Howard

On February 12, 2010 East Texans awoke to the rare sight of snow-covered streets, lawns and trees. Six inches (15 cm) of snow fell in the city of Tyler, which usually gets little more than a dusting of snow each winter. The maximum temperature for February 12 was only 36˚ F (2˚ C), well below the average of 63˚ F (18˚ C) for mid-February. Many children, as well as adults, made the most of the event and built their first snowmen, or engaged in a few friendly snowball fights. By the way, it would appear that February 12 was the only time snow was reported in each of the 50 states of the U.S.
 
The upper photo was taken in the Azalea District of Tyler. This area of the city is known for its beautiful displays of azaleas in late March, but the shimmering winter scenery also attracted sightseers. Alas, neither sightseers nor snowmen lasted long, as the temperature rose to 47˚ F (8˚ C) on the following day. The lower photo depicts a more usual scene for mid-February in East Texas and was taken at a local daffodil garden on February 15, 2009. What a difference a year makes!
 

• Tyler, Texas Coordinates: 32.334167, -95.3
• Earth Observatory
  • Winter Weather Across the United States
  • Stratosphere Influences Winter Weather