Here are a few photos I took from the safe confines of my home in Waltham, Massachusetts during the Blizzard of 2005. The storm was winding down at this point but the precipitation was still dangerous. Temperatures in the teens and high winds created a combination of small particles of icy snow and blown snow that would temporarily blind you if you faced into the wind. (I walked a few blocks to buy a Sunday paper and paid the price for not having ski goggles.)

A few words on blizzards - Boston proper officially got 21.5" of snow, and some places got up to 38". The news stations like to rank 'worst' storms based on total accumulation, but it's not very meaningful. The Blizzard of '78 only got 6" more, but its effect was vastly different. The main issue was the fact that the storm seemed to come out of nowhere, catching everyone by surprise. Additionally, electronics/communications technology and general preparedness weren't anywhere near what they are now. Numerous parts of New England were paralyzed for over a week, and for many it was a true test of survival. There are many web sites and books that document these events.

In contrast, the main problem Boston is facing today is where to put all the snow. They aren't going to start removing it until tonight (January 24), 24 hours after the storm ended, after they conclude a meeting to decide on a dump location.

A final note: I don't mean to downplay the effects of the recent storm. I extend my sympathies to anyone who experienced tragedy or hardship due to this or any previous storm.