Reflecting on the 2011 Snowstorm: Acton Buried Under 20 Inches 14 Years Ago
Fourteen years ago, a significant snowstorm hit Maine, particularly impacting the town of Acton. This October snowstorm, widely known as “Snowtober,” occurred from October 29 to 30, 2011. It brought impressive snowfall totals across the region, leaving Acton buried under 20 inches of snow.
Snowfall Totals Across Maine
Acton recorded the highest snowfall in the state, reaching 20 inches. Other areas also experienced substantial accumulations:
- Bridgton: 17.5 inches
- Oxford, Gray, and Turner: over 12 inches
Meanwhile, Peru, Massachusetts, claimed the highest total in the Northeast, with an astounding 32 inches of snow.
Impact of the Storm
The storm created a winter wonderland but also led to significant challenges. The mix of wet, heavy snow combined with high winds and the presence of autumn leaves on trees resulted in widespread damage. Many trees and branches fell, contributing to power outages.
Power Outages
Throughout the storm, Maine experienced approximately 160,000 power outages. The broader Northeast region faced over 3 million outages, with Connecticut alone reporting about 830,000. This widespread disruption highlighted the severity of the storm.
Portland’s Record
In Portland, the snowstorm brought 5.2 inches of accumulation. This marked the highest amount of snowfall ever recorded in the city for October, surpassing the previous record of 3.8 inches set in 1969.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the 2011 Snowtober event, it serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of early-season snowstorms. While residents may not see significant snowfall again until November, the memory of that October night remains fresh for many.
