On February 24, 2023, San Francisco experienced an unprecedented winter storm that set a 132-year-old temperature record, marking the coldest February 24 on record since 1891. The high temperature reached only 39°F (3.9°C), breaking the previous record of 40°F (4.4°C) set on the same date in 1891.
The storm, part of a larger weather system impacting the western United States, brought rare snowfall to low-elevation areas of Northern California, including parts of the Bay Area. In San Francisco, while snow did not accumulate in the city proper, nearby regions such as the Santa Cruz Mountains and parts of the East Bay experienced dustings of snow, delighting residents and prompting school closures.
The severe weather conditions led to significant disruptions across the state. In Southern California, the National Weather Service issued a blizzard warning for the first time since 1989, affecting the mountains of Los Angeles, Ventura, and San Bernardino counties. The storm brought heavy snow, strong winds, and power outages, with over 800,000 customers losing electricity statewide.
In San Francisco, the storm’s impact was felt through record-low temperatures and high winds, leading to hazardous conditions and prompting public safety advisories. The city’s infrastructure, including public transportation and roadways, faced challenges due to the cold temperatures and wind gusts exceeding 60 mph.
Mayor London Breed addressed the city’s response to the storm, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and community resilience. “San Francisco has faced numerous challenges, and this storm is another reminder of the need for our residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions,” she stated.
As the storm subsided, city officials and residents began the process of recovery, with efforts focused on clearing debris, restoring power, and assessing damage. The event underscored the importance of infrastructure resilience and emergency preparedness in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
The February 24, 2023 storm serves as a stark reminder of the potential impacts of climate change on urban areas, highlighting the need for continued investment in infrastructure and community preparedness to mitigate the effects of extreme weather events.
