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Ask any crotchety old-timer or loquacious longtime local and they’ll tell ya: We ain’t seen this much snow ‘round here for nigh-on 35 years.

It’s true! This morning the Outpost spoke with Meteorologist Josh Wood, who works at the National Weather Service office on Woodley Island, and he said that while the instruments out there have only recorded a quarter-inch of snowfall, some of his NWS colleagues are reporting two inches or more of accumulation in locations around the bay. 

Photos submitted by readers confirm this, and as I write these words it’s still falling!

The last time the Humboldt Bay region got this much snow was during the winter of 1989, when even Woodley Island recorded an inch and a half. 

Arcata residents might quibble: “But what about 2019?” 

Fair point! An uncommonly localized snowfall fell on Arcata and McKinleyville four years ago, briefly turning the Plaza into a winter wonderland and inspiring a few bold souls to snowboard down city streets. Woodley Island saw about half an inch of accumulation that year, but the snow didn’t stick around long once the sun rose — even in Arcata.

The current snowfall has created hazardous driving conditions. Chains or 4-wheel drive are required on Fickle Hill Road in Arcata. In SoHum, chains are required in Whitethorn and Shelter Cove Road; and drivers are advised to carry chains on Alderpoint Road.

Chains are also required on State Route 299 from Lord Ellis Summit to Trinity County. Chains are required on State Route 36 from Post Mountain to Platina.

Stay safe out there, folks!

UPDATE: Chains are now also required on Mattole Road, Titlow Hill Road and Bear River Ridge Road.