December 11, 2008 - Snow flakes fell on New Orleans today. It lasted
from 9 am until about noon. As you can see it was enough to stick for a
few hours.
There were more than a few notable events as the streetcars rolled through the snow.
- The local authorities showed some restraint and refrained from
ordering an evacuation although they did encourage everyone stay off
the roads.
- Ignoring this order, drivers flocked to the roads and
engaged in a medley of fender benders. Why remains a mystery as the
roads although wet were not unusually slick.
- Schools remained open. This was sensible as the kids had
already arrived by the time the snow started to fall. Kids were not
allowed to go out and play. A few parents took their kids out of
schools precisely to allow them to play.
- A few bridges were inexplicably closed even though temperatures remained above freezing.
- One snowman was shot through the head when he refused to
freeze. Authorities were summoned, but the evidence melted away before
they arrived. Eyewitnesses refused to get involved.
Pundits
recalled that on Christmas Day 2004 it snowed for a few hours
delivering the first White Christmas in New Orleans history and
providing a vivid precursor to the disastrous 2005 hurricane season.