Have you ever wondered when the last time it snowed in Paris was? The City of Light is known for its charming cafés, romantic streets, and stunning architecture.
Snowfall in Paris is a rare and magical occurrence that transforms the city into a winter wonderland. In this article, we’ll explore the history of snowfall in Paris and when the last time it snowed was.
Paris Snowfall History
Paris has a temperate oceanic climate, which means that it experiences mild winters with occasional cold snaps. It’s no secret that snow is a rarity in Paris, but it does happen from time to time. The earliest recorded snowfall in Paris dates back to 1229 when a heavy snowstorm blanketed the city for several days.
Throughout history, there have been several notable instances of snowfall in Paris. One of the most significant was the winter of 1709 when an extreme cold wave hit Europe, resulting in widespread famine and death. The Seine River froze solidly for several weeks, and ice skating became a popular activity among Parisians.
The Last Time it Snowed
The last time Paris experienced significant snowfall was on February 7th, 2018. A light dusting of snow fell on the city, covering its streets and monuments with a beautiful white blanket. While this may not seem like much to some people, it was enough to cause chaos on the roads and public transport.
Before that, Paris had not seen significant snowfall since 2013 when over six inches fell on the city over two days. This event caused travel disruption throughout France and led to many schools closing their doors.
What Causes Snowfall?
Snow occurs when moisture from clouds freezes into ice crystals before falling to earth’s surface. When these ice crystals combine and become heavy enough, they fall as snowflakes.
The temperature at which snowflakes form is essential, and it needs to be below freezing at ground level. In Paris, the average winter temperature is around 41°F (5°C), making it challenging for snow to form.
Conclusion
Paris is a city that’s known for its beauty and charm, but when snowfall hits, it adds a touch of magic to the already enchanting streets. While snowfall is rare in Paris, it’s not unheard of, and when it happens, it transforms the city into a winter wonderland.
The last significant snowfall in Paris was on February 7th, 2018, and before that, it was in 2013. So if you’re planning a trip to Paris during the winter months, keep your fingers crossed for some snowy weather!