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Philadelphia's Historic Snowfall Sparks Climate Change Debate

1/8/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The city of Philadelphia recorded 30.7 inches of snowfall on January 7–8, 1996, the largest on record, with the total inferred rather than measured.
Experts debated climate change impacts on snowfall; some say warming could intensify storms, while others note the conditions for heavy snow are complex.
Philadelphia's seasonal snowfall is normal at 4.8 inches, but recent years have seen a lack of snow due to unfavorable weather patterns.

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Story summary

The city of Philadelphia recorded 30.7 inches of snowfall on January 7–8, 1996, the largest on record, with the total inferred rather than measured.
Experts debated climate change impacts on snowfall; some say warming could intensify storms, while others note the conditions for heavy snow are complex.
Philadelphia's seasonal snowfall is normal at 4.8 inches, but recent years have seen a lack of snow due to unfavorable weather patterns.