Boston, MA – On this day in 1898, one of the worst ice storms in Connecticut history ended, leaving widespread destruction. The storm, known as the “Great Ice Storm,” hit the Northwest Hills for three days.
According to the National Weather Service, freezing rain coated trees, buildings, and roads with up to seven inches of ice. The extreme conditions led to fallen trees, snapped power lines, and damaged buildings. Travel became nearly impossible as ice-covered roads turned hazardous.
For the first time, Connecticut experienced long-term power and communication failures. The weight of the ice brought down utility poles, leaving communities without electricity. The storm disrupted daily life, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to severe weather.
The 1898 ice storm remains one of Connecticut’s most devastating winter events. It reshaped how the state prepared for extreme weather, emphasizing infrastructure improvements.
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