1968 was a year of dramatic weather contrasts across the U.S., shaped by intriguing climate patterns and even solar activity. Here's a snapshot of what made it stand out:
🌦️ Key Weather Highlights from 1968
-
Spring 1968: Wetter-than-average conditions swept through the north-central U.S., while the western states leaned dry. This pattern was linked to a neutral ENSO (El Niño–Southern Oscillation) phase and a peak in solar sunspot activity, which some meteorologists believe influenced seasonal shifts.
-
March 1968 Snowstorm: A major late-winter snowstorm hit western Tennessee, bringing heavy snowfall followed by near-record low temperatures. It was considered one of the most unusual late-season events in years.
-
December 1968: The month began with frost and fog, turned cool and wet mid-month, and then plunged into a cold snap from December 23 onward. Central England Temperature (CET) averaged a chilly 3.0°C, marking it as a notably cold December.
-
La Niña-like Conditions: Although a full La Niña event didn’t officially occur, the winter of 1967–68 showed La Niña biases, influencing global weather patterns, including those in the U.S..
If you're thinking about weaving this into your historical storytelling or visual work, the symbolism of a turbulent climate—mirroring the social and political upheaval of 1968—could be powerful. Want help crafting a weather-themed banner or timeline module for your site?
🌦️ Weather in 1968: A Year of Atmospheric Echoes
From icy silence to sudden storms, the climate of 1968 mirrored the upheaval of its era. This timeline traces the year's meteorological moods—each season a symbol, each storm a story.
🧊 Jan–Feb
Cold, dry winter across the Midwest
Symbol: Dormancy, stillness
Visual: Frosted trees, muted palette
❄️ March
Major snowstorm in Tennessee; record lows
Symbol: Sudden disruption
Visual: Swirling snow overlay
🌧️ Spring
Wet north-central U.S., dry West
Symbol: Duality, imbalance
Visual: Split-screen rain/sun motif
🔥 Summer
Warm with regional droughts
Symbol: Tension, simmering unrest
Visual: Cracked earth, hazy skies
🍂 Autumn
Mild, fading warmth
Symbol: Transition, reflection
Visual: Golden leaves, soft gradients
🌫️ December
Cold snap begins Dec 23; fog and frost earlier
Symbol: Closure, clarity through cold
Visual: Ice crystals, deep blue tones