Historic Cold Snap and Snow Blanket US in Early 2018, Triggering 'Falling Iguana Advisory' in Florida

Widespread Arctic Blast Grips Nation

In early January 2018, a powerful winter storm and an accompanying Arctic air mass delivered a brutal cold snap and significant snowfall across much of the eastern United States. The event, which unfolded from approximately January 2nd to January 8th, brought record-low temperatures to the Southeast and blanketed parts of the Northeast with heavy snow, causing widespread impacts and disruptions. The cold spell originated from the Northern Plains, making an abrupt transition to wintry conditions across affected regions.

Southeast Experiences Record Cold and 'Falling Iguanas'

The Southeast U.S. endured exceptionally cold temperatures, with numerous locations setting new records. In Georgia, Athens reported a daily record minimum of 11°F on January 2nd, while Savannah saw a record low maximum of 30°F on January 3rd. Brunswick recorded a low of 25°F on January 4th. Across eastern North and South Carolina, temperatures plummeted into the single digits and teens, marking one of the coldest periods on record. Wilmington, North Carolina, registered 11°F on January 6th, tying its 20th coldest reading in history. At the Columbia Metro Airport in South Carolina, a record was set for consecutive days with lows below 20°F between January 2nd and 7th.

Florida also experienced unusual cold, with Tallahassee officially measuring 0.1 inches of snow. Jacksonville recorded a low of 28°F, breaking a 1977 record. In South Florida, temperatures dipped below 40°F, leading to a peculiar phenomenon: a 'falling iguana advisory'. Green iguanas, an invasive species in the state, become lethargic and immobile when temperatures fall below 40-45°F, causing them to lose their grip on trees and fall to the ground. Experts advised residents to leave the stunned reptiles alone, as they typically revive once temperatures rise.

Northeast Buried Under Heavy Snowfall

The same storm system, often described as a 'bomb cyclone' due to its rapid intensification, brought substantial snowfall to the Mid-Atlantic states, New England, and Atlantic Canada. Accumulations reached up to 2 feet (61 cm) in some areas. New York City's Central Park recorded 9.8 inches (25 cm) of snow, while Islip on Long Island, New York, saw 16 inches (41 cm). The severe weather forced Kennedy International Airport to temporarily suspend flights due to whiteout conditions.

Broader Impacts and Fatalities

The widespread cold and snow had severe consequences across the affected regions. At least 22 fatalities were attributed to the storm, including several car accident-related deaths. Powerful winds in New England led to coastal flooding, reaching historic levels in some communities. Schools in North Carolina were canceled due to the hazardous conditions. The extreme cold also impacted wildlife, with reports of ocean water temperatures dropping to record lows, such as 39.3°F at Cherry Grove Pier in South Carolina. Additionally, alligators were observed frozen into ice in local ponds and creeks, with only their noses extended for breathing.