1977 — Dec 5-12, Snowstorms, Cold Wave, wind, esp. Upper Midwest and Northeast –>114
—>114 Blanchard tally[1] based on State breakouts below.[2]
— 44 AP. “44 Deaths Linked to Zero Weather.” Portsmouth Times, OH, 12-10-1977. 1.
— 15 UPI. “At Least 15 Deaths Attributed to Weather,” Pharos-Tribune, Logansport IN, 1-11-1977, 27.[3]
Summary of State Breakouts Below
Arkansas ( 2) (Dec 8)
Illinois (19) (Dec 5-10)
Indiana ( 9) (Dec 5-10/11)
Iowa ( 9) (Dec 5-10)
Kentucky ( 3) (Dec 7)
Maine ( 1) (Dec 10)
Massachusetts ( 2) (Dec 11)
Michigan (14) (Dec 8-12)
Missouri ( 4) (Dec 5-8)
New Hampshire ( 2) (Dec 6-11)
New York ( 7) (Dec 5 {6 deaths} and 8)
North Dakota ( 1) (Dec 6)
Ohio (22) (Dec 5-12, especially Dec 8-9/16 deaths.)
Pennsylvania (10) (Dec 5-10)
Wisconsin ( 8) (Dec 6-9)
Cause of Death Summary
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in snowbound vehicle ( 1)
Exposure/Hypothermia (17)
Fall on Icy Surface ( 1)
Heart attacks shoveling/removing snow/or otherwise related to snow (56)
High Wind (mobile home and vehicular) ( 3)
Sledding, Snowmobile, Snow-Removal Fatal Accidents (11)
Vehicular Accidents related icy or snow-covered roads/surfaces (23)
Other (Parked car with heater running for heat bursts into flames) ( 1)
[State and locality breakouts begin on page 2. Some narrative context begins on page 8.]
Breakout of Winter Weather-Related Fatalities by State and Locality (where noted):
Arkansas ( 2) (Dec 8)
–1 Stuttgart area, Dec 8. Strong winds associated with cold front destroys mobile home; woman.[4]
–1 Wynne area, US Hwy. 64, Dec 8. Wind associated with fast cold front blows truck into car.[5]
Illinois (19) (Dec 5-10)
–19 Blanchard tally based on locality breakouts below.
–16 AP. “16 die when bitter cold, snow strike.” Alton Telegraph, IL, 12-10-1977, p. A-7.[6]
Breakout of Illinois weather-related fatalities by locality, where noted:
–1 Belleville, Dec 6. Heart attack after sweeping snow in front of home; Alfonse Kling, 78.[7]
–1 Bloomington, McLean County, Dec 9. Heart attack shoveling snow; Paul Steilow, 74.[8]
–1 Chicago, ~Dec 6. Heart attack shoveling snow; male, 74.[9]
–1 Chicago, Dec 6. Three-car accident “blamed on icy pavement; Gerda Schmidt, 32.[10]
–8 Chicago area, Dec 8-10.[11]
–1 Blue Island, St. Francis Hospital, Dec 8-10. Heart attack shoveling snow.[12]
–1 Chicago, Dec 8. Heart attack shoveling snow; Fred Ahlfeld, 73.[13]
–1 Chicago, Dec 9. Fire. Kerosene lantern used to heat home, knocked over; woman.[14]
–1 Chicago Heights, Dec 8. Heart attack? Became ill after shoveling snow; Michael Hovis, 34.[15]
–1 Harvey, Ingalls Memorial hospital, Dec 8-10. Heart attack shoveling snow.[16]
–1 Lockport, Will County, Dec 8. Snowmobile hits tree; Elizabeth Rodman, 27.[17]
–1 Palatine, Dec 9. Slipped/fell, icy Chicago & North Western RR tracks; Linda Raffaelli, 28.[18]
–1 Palos Heights, ~Dec 8-10. Heart attack shoveling snow.[19]
–1 Galesburg, Dec 8. Heart attack shoveling snow; Delbert C. Anderson, 57.[20]
–1 Galesburg, Dec 9. Heart attack shoveling snow; Willie C. Strader, 63.[21]
–1 Lee Center, Dec 5. Girl throwing snowballs in street hit by pickup; Joan Elizabeth Wellman, 15.[22]
–1 Palatine, Dec 9. Slipped/fell on icy Chicago & North Western RR tracks; Linda Raffaelli, 28.[23]
–1 Rockford, Dec 9. Exposure? Body found partially snow-covered near front door; John Buss, 76.[24]
–2 Royalton area, Dec 10. Exposure after car goes off RR trestle, 10-ft upside-down into water.[25]
Indiana ( 9) (Dec 5-10/11)
–9 Associated Press. “71-Year-Old Frozen To Death.” Anderson Herald, IN, 12-13-1977, p.2.[26]
–9 Blanchard tally based on locality and/or cause-of-death breakouts below.
–8 Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. “Bitter Cold Here Continues.” 12-10-1977, p. 14.[27]
–7 Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. “All Area Roads are Icy, Schools Closed…” 12-9-1977, p. 12.
Breakout of Indiana winter weather-related deaths by locality, where noted.
–1 Covington, Dec 10/11. Exposure in wooded area shack with fireplace and wood but no fire.[28]
–1 Dubois Co. Rd. 400 So., Dec 5-6 Pickup hits bridge railing during snow on snow-covered road.[29]
–1 Fort Wayne, Allen Co., ~Dec 7-8. Heart attack removing snow; Irwin Zollinger, 82.[30]
–1 Indianapolis, ~Dec 7. Exposure; female, 77, fell into ditch outside home; could not get up.[31]
–1 Indianapolis, Marion County, ~Dec 8. Heart attack removing snow; Arvel J. Ringham, 74.[32]
–1 Lake County, IN-8. Car skids on icy road into pole, throwing driver out; Jack Ellis Jr., 21.[33]
–1 New Haven, Allen Co., ~Dec 7-8. Heart attack removing snow; Clarence Hugenard, 78.[34]
–1 Sheridan, Hamilton County, ~Dec 8. Heart attack removing snow; C. Gaylord Shook, 55.[35]
–1 Locale not noted, by Dec 10. Exposure.[36]
Iowa ( 9) (Dec 5-10)
–9 Blanchard tally based on locality breakouts below.
–5 Cedar Rapids Gazette, IA. “Storm…Five deaths reported in Eastern Iowa.” 12-6-1977, p. 1.
–1 Cedar Rapids, Dec 5. Heart attack shoveling driveway; John J. DeMuth, 69.[37]
–1 Cedar Rapids, Dec 5. Heart attack clearing snow from driveway; Ralph N. Schissel, 63.[38]
–1 Cedar Rapids, Dec 5. Snowmobile collides with car; Dennis J. Healy, 37 (snowmobile).[39]
–1 Dubuque, Dec 10 (from Dec 8 heart attack after shoveling snow); Vincent Snyder, 72.[40]
–1 Edgewood, Dec 5. Tractor plowing snow from driveway turns over; Robert W. Kirby, 22.[41]
–1 Janesville area, Dec 9. Snowmobiler his parked car; Michael Megan, 18, of Cedar Falls.[42]
–1 Marengo, Dec 6. Snowmobile passenger thrown into path of grader; Julie Ann Belden, 18.[43]
–1 Peoria, Dec 5. Tractor falls down snow-covered ditch, overturning; Martin Vos, 59.[44]
–1 Richland, Dec 7. Apparent heart attack just after clearing snow from driveway; Floyd D. Smith, 78.[45]
Kentucky ( 3) (Dec 7)
–2 Louisville, Dec 7. Exposure in parked car on used car lot; two men.[46]
–1 Louisville, Dec 7. Exposure in unheated shack; male.[47]
Maine ( 1) (Dec 10)
–1 Hallowell, Dec 10. Heart attack shoveling snow; Leslie E. Gray, 79.[48]
Massachusetts ( 2) (Dec 11)
–2 Boston, Dec 11. Exposure in abandoned apt. bldg., Betty Clements, 43, Vernon Charles, 58.[49]
Michigan (14) (Dec 8-12)
–14 Blanchard tally based on locality breakouts below.
— 2 Dec 8-11. Chronicle-Telegram, Elyria, OH. “Snow, bitter cold leaves 15 dead.” 12-11-1977, E-4.
Breakout of Michigan winter weather-related fatalities by locality, where noted:
–1 Bergland, Dec 9. Snowmobile/auto accident; Daniel Younk, 13.[50]
–1 Birch Run Township, Dec 10. Snowmobiler runs into steel cable; Charles Montague, 21.[51]
–3 Detroit area, Dec 9. Heart attacks shoveling snow; men.[52]
–1 Detroit area, Dec 9. Heart attack plowing snow with a tractor.[53]
–1 Detroit area, Dec 9. Heart attack while starting a snowblower.[54]
–1 Detroit, Dec 11. CO poisoning, car left running after getting stuck in snow; Reginald Jones, 5.[55]
–1 Grand Rapids, Dec 10, after snow sled collided with park bench; William Ollam, 13.[56]
–1 Hamilton, Dec 12. Two-car crash blamed by Allegan Co. Sheriff’s deputies on slush on the road.[57]
–1 Ishpeming Twp., Dec 11. Snowmobiler strangled; scarf caught in flywheel; Kenneth Eckloff, 14.[58]
–1 Lapeer area, MI 24, Dec 8. Crash; “The snow was blamed for the death of Lloyd Jakubos, 48…”[59]
–1 Lenawee County, Dec 10-11. Snowmobile crash in intersection; Ralph Croninger, 42.[60]
–1 Manitowoc, Dec 8. Heart attack shoveling snow at home; Carl Johanson, 67.[61]
Missouri ( 4) (Dec 5-8)
–1 Clark area, Hwy 63, Dec 5. Car goes out of control on snow-covered road into another car.[62]
–1 Ironton, MO 21, Dec 8. Two cars go out of control on icy road; collide; passenger killed.[63]
–1 St. Joseph’s area, Dec 8. Driver of car on slick and icy US 59 loses control, hits truck.[64]
–1 Sullivan area, I-44. ~Dec 6. Wind gust causes truck driver to lose control, skid into car.[65]
New Hampshire ( 2) (Dec 6-11)
–1 Guild, Dec 6. Exposure; found dead in snowbank near home; Anna Targ, 83.[66]
–1 Jaffrey, Dec 11. Exposure; body found outside her apartment; Rose Nolan.[67]
New York ( 7) (Dec 5 {6} and 8)
–7 Dec 6. AP. “New Yorkers begin snow removal effort.” Bradford Era, PA, 12-7-1977, p. 15.
–7 Dec 5-8. Blanchard tally based on locality breakouts below.
–6 Dec 5. AP. “Severe Storm…11 Dead in 3 States.” Courier-Express, DuBois, PA, 12-6-1977, 1.
–5 Dec 5. AP. “East Battered by Big Snow.” Evening Standard, Uniontown, PA, 12-6-1977, p1.
–1 Dec 5. AP. “Howling Winds Drive Storm Across Nation.” Circleville Herald, OH, 12-6-1977, 2.
Breakout of New York winter weather-related fatalities by locality, where noted:
–1 Albany, Dec 5. Heart attack trying to push car out of snow bank; Gerald Starer.[68]
–3 Buffalo area, Dec 5. Heart attacks shoveling snow.[69]
–1 Granby, Dec 5. Motorist lost control of car on snow-covered road in snowstorm, hits car.[70]
–1 Hartland, Dec 8. Snowmobile collides with car; Niagara Co. man;[71] Dennis M. Guyette, 25.[72]
–1 Penfield, Rochester area, Dec 5. Heart attack operating snow plow; man.[73]
North Dakota ( 1) (Dec 6)
–1 McKenzie area, Dec 6. Exposure; rancher overcome seeking help after car was snowbound.[74]
Ohio (22) (Dec 5-12, especially Dec 8-9/16 deaths.)
–23 Dec 1-12. Blanchard tally based on locality breakouts below.
–11 Dec 9. Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Storm Deaths Hit 11.” 12-10-1977, p. 1.
Breakout of Ohio winter weather-related deaths by locality:
–1 Athens, Dec 8. Heart attack; coroner attributed it “to the cold weather and…hard work.” Bailey.[75]
–1 Bedford, Dec 9. Heart attack? Found dead in snow outside home; Anthony Loparo, 60.[76]
–1 Caesar’s Creek Reservoir, ~Dec 9. Exposure after leaving snow-stranded Jeep; Kevin Moran, 20.[77]
–1 Cannons Mill area, Dec 8. Cars collide on “snow-covered and slippery road” (State Police).[78]
–9 Cleveland area, Dec 9. Heart attacks shoveling snow; men.[79]
–1 Brooklyn Heights, Dec 9. Heart attack using snow blower; Fred Laskowski, 67.[80]
–1 Cleveland, Dec 9. Heart attack after shoveling snow; William Ferrene, 56.[81]
–1 Cleveland, Dec 9. Heart attack shoveling snow from driveway; Ed Heck, 77.[82]
–1 Cleveland, Dec 9. Heart attack shoveling snow; Frank Ratajack.[83]
–1 Cleveland, Dec 9. Heart attack after shoveling snow; Ted Rolland, 63.[84]
–1 Huron, Dec 9. Heart attack shoveling snow; William J. Lander, 73.[85]
–1 Olmstead Falls, Dec 9. Heart attack after shoveling snow; John Benko, 80.[86]
–1 Parma, Dec 9. Heart attack operating snow blower; Fred Briggs, 68.[87]
–1 Rocky River, Dec 9. Heart attack after shoveling snow; James Gorman, 71.[88]
–1 Columbus Grove, Dec 11. Heart attack while shoveling snow; J. Cletus Rooney, 79.[89]
–1 Dayton, Dec 9. Exposure; body found frozen on front porch; screen handle torn off; Hollaway.[90]
–1 Delphos, Dec 9. Heart attack walking to house after her car was snowbound; Frances Kill, 67.[91]
–1 Hamler, Dec 8. Heart attack shoveling snow at home; Arthur H. Imbrock, 52.[92]
–1 Litchfield Township, Dec 9. Car skids into path of train at icy crossing; James A. Cook, 34.[93]
–1 Lorain, Dec 5. Parked car, motor running for heat, overheats, bursts into flames; Frank Harris, 51.[94]
–1 Miller City, Dec 5. Car slides into pond after freed from snow drift; Herman C. Beckman, 64.[95]
–1 Tiffin, Dec 7. Exposure/heart attack shoveling snow, too weak to get up; Korenne Brunner, 79.[96]
–1 Van Wert, Dec 5. Apparent heart attack shoveling snow at home; Mrs. Nora Tickles, 78.[97]
Pennsylvania (10) (Dec 5-10)
–10 Blanchard tally based on locality breakouts below.
— 5 National Climatic Center, NOAA. Storm Data, Vol. 19, No. 12, Dec 1977, p. 7.
Breakout of Pennsylvania weather related fatalities by locality, where noted:
–2 Bethlehem area, Dec 5. Car skids off icy road through telephone pole into tree; young men.[98]
–1 Dublin, Plumstead Twp., Dec 6. Car/camper collision, icy Rt. 313; Watson W. Soden, 60.[99]
–1 Eastern PA, Dec 8-9. Snow-related hazardous driving conditions; motorist.[100]
–1 Erie County (northwest PA), Dec 5. Car slides off snow-covered Route 6; motorist.[101]
–1 Linesville, Dec 7. Heart attack after working with snow blower; Paul Britton, 77.[102]
–1 Meadville, Dec 7. Heart attack after clearing snow with snowblower; Dale, Hovis, 64.[103]
–1 Meadville area, Dec 10. Car slides on snow-covered Rt. 322 into another car.[104]
–1 Pittsburgh, Dec 7. Car and tractor-trailer collision “blamed [on] icy road conditions.”[105]
–1 Stoystown, Dec 6. Tractor trailer jackknifes on “extremely icy and snow covered” Rt. 30.[106]
Wisconsin ( 8) (Dec 6-9)
–8 Blanchard tally based on locality breakouts below.
–3 Dec 8-10. Chronicle-Telegram, Elyria, OH. “Snow, bitter cold leaves 15 dead.” 12-11-1977, p. E-4.
Breakout of Wisconsin winter weather-related deaths by locality where we have seen reporting
–1 Blanchardville, Dec 9. “…accident removing snow.” Richard (Buff) Olson, 23.[107]
–1 Kenosha, Dec 6. Motorist loses control of car on icy street, skids into pedestrian; Kasputis, 83.[108]
–1 Kenosha, Dec 9. Heart attack shoveling snow; Peter P. Dziaugis (Jokas), 70.[109]
–1 Manitowoc, Dec 8. Heart attack shoveling snow; Carl Johanson, 67.[110]
–1 New Berlin area, Dec 8. Exposure. NCC. Storm Data, Vol. 19, No. 12, Dec 1977, p. 9.
–1 Oregon area, Dane County Trunk MM, Dec 6. Milk van crash on icy road; David Schewe, 18.[111]
–1 St. Cloud area, Dec 8. Snowmobiler runs into back of car stopped in middle of road.[112]
–1 West Bend area, Dec 9. Exposure; body found in snowdrift a mile from snowbound car.[113]
Narrative Information
Dec 5: “A late autumn snow storm blasted Iowa Monday [5th], closing hundreds of schools and nearly paralyzing traffic in all but the extreme northwest corner of the state. The Department of Public Safety was advising everyone without an urgent need to travel to stay home. Virtually every road in Iowa was reported snowpacked and icy by mid-morning. Travelers in central Iowa reported hundreds of cars in ditches. Many minor accidents contributed to the traffic snarl in the urban areas.
“The storm system that dumped freezing rain on much of the state before letting go with the snow was followed by a cold front carrying heavy northwest winds, leading to a prediction of considerable drifting snow into early Tuesday, at least.
“Hardest hit by the snow were cities in a belt running from Minnesota border through the Waterloo and Ottumwa areas. Officials at the Ottumwa airport, which like many other small fields was closed down, said eight inches of new snow had fallen by 10 a.m. The Des Moines Municipal Airport was open, but a tower official said only instrument flights were moving and few of those. At least five inches of snow fell on the Des Moines area….
“Overnight lows reached to low teens in the northwest and mid 20s in central and southeast areas.” (AP. “Snow Storm Closes Schools, Halts Traffic.” Carroll Daily Times Herald, IA, 12-5-1977, p. 1.)
Dec 6: “Howling winds drove a severe Midwestern storm into the East, dumping up to 15 inches of snow and causing at least nine deaths in a sweep over three states. Five deaths attributed to the storm were reported Monday in New York, two in Pennsylvania and two in Ohio. Most were heart attack victims shoveling snow or those caught in traffic accidents on slick roads. Burralo International Airport in New York was closed because of the storm. The snow line extended from northern Michigan through northern Pennsylvania and into northwestern New York and New England. An additional three or four inches of snow was expected today in many areas. Six to seven inches of snow was common from St. Louis across Illinois, Indiana and into Ohio. Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire had up to six inches by early today with more in the northern sections of those states. Western Massachusetts had up to two inches of snow and the Boston area also had about two inches before the snow changed to rain Monday night.” (Assoc. Press. “East Battered by Big Snow.” Evening Standard, Uniontown, PA, 12-6-1977, p. 1.)
Dec 7: “The minds of millions of Midwesterners flashed back to the winter of the century, which really wasn’t so long ago. ‘It’s started just like last year,’ said a shivering receptionist in a suburban Chicago optometrist’s office…Displacing the heavy snowstorms that blitzed across the upper half of the nation to open the week, a bitterly cold arctic air mass pushed into the Midwest Tuesday [6th] and temperatures dipped well below zero in the far North early today.
“In northern New England, lingering storms dumped a foot or more of snow and whipped up gales along the Atlantic coastline and the eastern Great Lakes. Travelers advisories extended from eastern Kentucky and the mountains of North Carolina to the lower Great Lakes. More than 18 inches of snow fell on parts of New England and deep drifts stranded more than 100 motorists in Indiana. Businesses in cities from the Midwest to the Northeast allowed employees to leave early or come in late….
“The cold even penetrated the Deep South and Southwest. Temperatures plunged to near freezing in south Texas, the scene of sizzling record readings in the 90s Monday. Likewise, the mercury dropped 60 degrees or more in the Florida Panhandle, but citrus industry officials said they were not worried about a recurrence of last year’s disastrous orange crop freeze….
“A foot of snow in the St. Lawrence River Valley temporarily immobilized St. Lawrence Seaway shipping. An official of the seaway authority said many of the 133 sea-going vessels trapped in the Great Lakes by severe weather may be forced to winter in Canada when the seaway closes Dec. 15….
“The snow and bitter cold took a toll in human suffering. At least five people were killed in weather-related accidents. A 74-year-old man shoveling snow in Chicago died of a stress-induced heart attack, doctors said. Searchers mounted snowmobiles to look for a missing teenage boy and girl near Nevada, Iowa. A school bus carrying 40 students skidded off a snowy road near Waukesha, Wis., and 11 persons sustained minor injuries….” (Daily Courier, Connellsville, PA. “Midwest Gets Chilling Memory of Last Winter.” 12-7-1977, p. 3.)
Dec 8-9: “Raw icy winds sent fresh snow swirling across sections of the Midwest and Northeast today, stranding motorists on clogged highways and forcing schools and businesses to close. Temperatures plummeted as the storm, born of a low pressure system in the Rockies and fed by frigid Arctic air, sliced through the nation’s midsection. In Dallas, the mercury dropped from a record high of 80 in midafternoon to 30 this morning. Temperatures were below the freezing mark in the Panhandle.
“In the Dakotas, temperatures of 25 to 30 below zero combined with winds of 15 to 25 mph for wind-chill indices of 60 to 80 below. Temperatures of 40 below were predicted today for both states. ‘The freeways are a mess,’ said a Michigan state police dispatcher in Detroit on Thursday. ‘Rush-hour traffic is bad enough on a good day. Today it’s horrible.’ Dozens of abandoned cars lined freeway shoulders, most buried under snow from passing plows. Detroit’s zero-degree reading Thursday set a record for the coldest Dec 8 since 1882. The snow was blamed for the death of Lloyd Jakubos, 48, of Lapeer, Mich., in a crash on state route, 24, state police said.
“The new snow, added to the crusty accumulations of the past week, buried some communities in snow as deep as 36 inches. Up to four more inches were forecast today for Michigan, northern Ohio, western Pennsylvania, extreme northern West Virginia and most of New York. Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine were to get between four and eight inches. Near blizzard conditions exist today in Minnesota, where roads are blocked in the western and southern portions of the state. Temperatures–well below zero in most of the state–are not expected to top 10 below today.
“Thursday’s [Dec 8] heaviest snow, four to nine inches, was across the southern Great Lakes region. Meadville, tucked in the northwestern corner of Pennsylvania, was still digging from beneath 30 inches received since Monday when the new storm began, piling up new snow at a rate of an inch an hour. State police said many tractor-trailer rigs and private vehicles were abandoned on Interstates 79 and 90 in Erie County. Three to seven inches of new snow fell on southwestern Pennsylvania, including the Pittsburgh metropolitan area. Six more inches of snow piled up in Indiana, seven in most of Illinois where the cities of Pittsfield and Winchester were reported snowbound. Combinations of rain, snow and freezing rain glazed roads in the Ohio Valley and northern Appalachians.” (AP. “Cars Stranded as Snow, Cold Zero In.” Portsmouth Times, OH, 12-9-1977, p. 1.)
Dec 9-10: “Below-zero temperatures and snow spanned an area from the upper Midwest through the Northeast today, and were blamed for at least 44 deaths in five states. Most of the deaths in Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and Ohio Friday [Dec 9] were attributed to heart attacks while persons shoveled snow or to traffic accidents. One woman in Illinois was killed by a train as she walked into a railroad crossing with her face shielded by a scarf against a bitter wind.
“Nine Cleveland-area men collapsed and died while shoveling snow Friday as more wind-blown snow and frigid air brought the winter miseries to northern Ohio. And in Medina County, authorities said a 34-year-old man was killed when his car skidded into a moving railroad train at an icy crossing. Killed in the accident at an Akron, Canton & Youngstown Railroad crossing in Litchfield Township was James A. Cook of Litchfield. The Highway Patrol reported almost all highways in Ohio open but snow covered. Interstate 71 north of Akron was closed for several hours Friday morning, the patrol said, because of a large number of mostly minor accidents and a shortage of salt to melt the ice….
“A Chicago woman whose gas had been turned off because of failure to pay utility bills, burned to death after kicking over a kerosene lantern used to heat her home, police said. ‘This is an emergency,’ Chicago Circuit Judge John F. Hechinger furiously declared. ‘Get out there and turn on the heat!’ he added, while ordering Peoples Gas, Light and Coke Co. to restore heat immediately to the apartment of another Chicago woman, Wendy Courts, 24, after testimony revealed that her two children were suffering from the mumps. Lawyers for the utility argued that she first would have to pat a $350 bill left by a former tenant….” (Associated Press. “44 Deaths Linked to Zero Weather.” Portsmouth Times, OH, 12-10-1977. p. 1.)
Dec 10: “Deep cold held on from North Dakota east to Maine Saturday [10th] and down the coast to Florida, but the heavy snows of Friday slacked off….” (Associated Press. “Deep Cold Continues Its Grip.” Herald Star, Steubenville, OH. 12-11-1977, 2A.)
Dec 10: “An late-autumn snowstorm that shackled much of the Midwest lumbered east Saturday [10th], leaving flesh-freezing cold in its wake. Savage winds howled over the snow-laden midlands, piling up road-clogging drifts that made travel difficult or impossible in many areas of Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan and Wisconsin.
“The three-day onslaught of snow and bitter cold left at least 15 persons dead — 8 in the Chicago area, 3 in Wisconsin and 2 each in Ohio and Michigan. Most of the deaths were attributed to auto accidents on snow-slicked roads or heart attacks caused by shoveling snow.
“National Guardsmen and snowmobile rescue units retrieved stranded travelers from dozens of snow-logged Midwest highways. Motels and even churches in the storm area were jammed with weather-weary motorists.
“Many major highways and most secondary roads in the storm area were closed by drifting snow. Segments of Interstate 55 were closed by snowdrifts in Illinois and a 180-mile stretch of Interstate 57 from the Kankakee, Ill., area to Effingham, Ill., also was closed by drifting snow. A Highway Department spokesman said the department tried to reopen Interstate 57 early Saturday. ‘But it was drifted closed again as soon as we opened it up.’
“The biting wind combined with sub-zero temperatures in much of the upper Midwest to produce wind chill factors in the 40 below zero to 60 below zero range — cold enough to freeze exposed flesh. Temperatures slipped below zero from Montana across the upper Mississippi Valley into portions of the northern Appalachians. Warroad, Minn., reported a temperature of 36 below zero and the temperature fell to 34 below at International Falls, Minn. Subzero temperatures and strong winds pushed the wind chill index to around 40 below zero range as workmen prepared floats for the Chicago’s Christmas parade….
“The Chicago Motor Club reported numerous calls from motorists whose cars refused to start in the cold weather. Midwesterners seeking refuge from the cold used enormous quantities of gas and electricity. Commonwealth Edison Co., which serves 2.8 million customers in the Chicago area, reported a record winter peak electrical demand of 10.5 million kilowatts between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. Friday. The previous record was set only last Tuesday when another frigid blast hit. The energy situation was similar throughout the upper Plains and the upper Midwest but there were no predictions of fuel shortages.
“Snow swept over Buffalo, N.Y., Friday night and early Saturday. Fifteen inches of new snow was reported, bringing the snow depth to more than two feet. Light snow spread over much of the Northeast Saturday.” (UPI. “At Least 15 Deaths Attributed to Weather,” Pharos-Tribune, Logansport IN, 1-11-1977, p. 27.)
Sources
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Associated Press. “16 die when bitter cold, snow strike.” Alton Telegraph, IL, 12-10-1977, p. A-7. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/alton-telegraph-dec-10-1977-p-7/
Associated Press. “44 Deaths Linked to Zero Weather.” Portsmouth Times, OH, 12-10-1977. p. 1. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/portsmouth-times-dec-10-1977-p-1/
Associated Press. “71-Year-Old Frozen To Death.” Anderson Herald, IN, 12-13-1977, p. 2. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/anderson-herald-bulletin-dec-13-1977-p-4/
Associated Press. “Arctic cold numbs most of west-central Illinois.” The Tribune, Terre Haute, IN, 12-7-1977, 21. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/terre-haute-tribune-dec-07-1977-p-21/
Associated Press. “Bradford Fifteen Inches Snow.” Courier-Express, DuBois, PA, 12-6-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/dubois-courier-express-dec-06-1977-p-1/
Associated Press. “Cars Stranded as Snow, Cold Zero In.” Portsmouth Times, OH, 12-9-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/portsmouth-times-dec-09-1977-p-1/
Associated Press. “Deep Cold Continues Its Grip.” Herald Star, Steubenville, OH. 12-11-1977, p. 2A. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/herald-star-dec-11-1977-p-2/
Associated Press. “East Battered by Big Snow.” Evening Standard, Uniontown, PA, 12-6-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-16-2019: https://newspaperarchive.com/uniontown-evening-standard-dec-06-1977-p-1/
Associated Press. “Fumes Kill Boy, 5, in Stalled Car.” Herald-Palladium, Benton Harbor, MI, 12-12-1977, p. 18. Accessed 3-20-2019: https://newspaperarchive.com/benton-harbor-herald-palladium-dec-12-1977-p-17/
Associated Press. “Howling Winds Drive Storm Across Nation.” Circleville Herald, OH, 12-6-1977, p. 2. Accessed 3-15-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/circleville-herald-dec-06-1977-p-18/
Associated Press. “Icy Mix Forecast For Ohio.” Portsmouth Times, OH, 12-8-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-15-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/portsmouth-times-dec-08-1977-p-1/
Associated Press. “Icy weather plagues state.” Sedalia Democrat, MO. 12-8-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-20-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/sedalia-democrat-dec-08-1977-p-1/
Associated Press. “Jaffrey woman found dead.” Portsmouth Herald, NH, 12-12-1977, p. 2. Accessed 3-20-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/portsmouth-herald-dec-12-1977-p-2/
Associated Press. “Michigan Can Expect Break in Snowstorm.” Ludington Daily News, MI, 12-10-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-19-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/ludington-daily-news-dec-10-1977-p-1/
Associated Press. “New Yorkers begin snow removal effort.” Bradford Era, PA, 12-7-1977, p. 15. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/bradford-era-dec-07-1977-p-15/
Associated Press. “NW Penna. Hit.” The Evening Standard, Uniontown, PA, 12-8-1977, p. 13. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/uniontown-evening-standard-dec-08-1977-p-13/
Associated Press. “Road conditions still hazardous.” Daily Capital News, MO, 12-7-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-20-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/daily-capital-news-dec-07-1977-p-1/
Associated Press. “Severe Storm Appears to be Easing, 11 Dead in 3 States.” Courier-Express, DuBois, PA, 12-6-1977, 1. Accessed 3-16-2019: https://newspaperarchive.com/dubois-courier-express-dec-06-1977-p-1/
Associated Press. “Snow Storm Closes Schools, Halts Traffic.” Carroll Daily Times Herald, IA, 12-5-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-19-2019: https://newspaperarchive.com/carroll-daily-times-herald-dec-05-1977-p-1/
Associated Press. “Snowmobiler killed.” Fort Madison Democrat, IA. 12-10-1977, p. 2. Accessed 3-19-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/fort-madison-evening-democrat-dec-10-1977-p-2/
Associated Press. “Snowmobile Mishaps Kill Two Riders.” Herald-Palladium, Benton Harbor, MI, 12-12-1977, p. 18. Accessed 3-20-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/benton-harbor-herald-palladium-dec-12-1977-p-17/
Associated Press. “Storm turns nation into giant icebox.” Syracuse Herald-Journal, 12-9-1977, p. 6. Accessed 3-17-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/syracuse-herald-journal-dec-09-1977-p-6/
Atchison Daily Globe, KS. “Local Nun Dies in Crash.” 12-8-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-19-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/atchison-daily-globe-dec-08-1977-p-1/
Cedar Rapids Gazette, IA. “Storm brings death, bitter cold. Five deaths reported in Eastern Iowa.” 12-6-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-19-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/cedar-rapids-gazette-dec-06-1977-p-1/
Chronicle-Telegram, Elyria, OH. “Elyria, area deaths.” 12-10-1977, p. C-2. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/elyria-chronicle-telegram-dec-10-1977-p-18/
Chronicle-Telegram, Elyria, OH. “Frigid air to hover here at least a few more days.” 12-10-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/elyria-chronicle-telegram-dec-10-1977-p-1/
Chronicle-Telegram, Elyria, OH. “Snow, bitter cold leaves 15 dead.” 12-11-1977, p. E-4. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/elyria-chronicle-telegram-dec-11-1977-p-40/
Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Area and Other Deaths.” 12-9-1977, p. 14. Accessed 3-15-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/defiance-crescent-news-dec-09-1977-p-16/
Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Storm.” 12-10-1977, p. 12. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/defiance-crescent-news-dec-10-1977-p-12/
Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Storm Deaths Hit 11.” 12-10-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/defiance-crescent-news-dec-10-1977-p-1/
Daily American, Somerset, PA. “Snow, Wind Freeze Area.” 12-7-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/somerset-daily-american-dec-07-1977-p-1/
Daily Courier, Connellsville, PA. “Midwest Gets Chilling Memory of Last Winter.” 12-7-1977, p. 3. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/connellsville-daily-courier-dec-07-1977-p-3/
Daily Intelligencer, Doylestown, PA. “Dublin man dies as auto, camper collide near bypass on icy road.” 12-6-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/doylestown-intelligencer-dec-06-1977-p-1/
Daily News-Bulletin, Brookfield, MO. “Services Set for Dr. Dorrell.” 12-6-1977, p. 7. Accessed 3-20-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/brookfield-daily-news-bulletin-dec-06-1977-p-7/
Daily Republican-Register, Mt. Carmel, IL. “Howling winds chill northern-central Illinois.” 12-9-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-18-2019: https://newspaperarchive.com/mount-carmel-daily-republican-register-dec-09-1977-p-1/
Des Moines Sunday Register, IA. “Dubuquer, 72, dies after shoveling snow.” 12-11-1977, p. 12D. Accessed 3-19-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/des-moines-register-dec-11-1977-p-50/
Dixon Evening Telegraph, IL. “One area fatality during storm.” 12-6-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-17-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/dixon-evening-telegraph-dec-06-1977-p-1/
Galesburg Register-Mail, IL. “Deaths and Funerals.” 12-9-1977, p. 15. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/galesburg-register-mail-dec-09-1977-p-15/
Herald-Palladium, Benton Harbor, MI. “Holland Woman Dies in Crash.” 12-13-1977, p. 14. Accessed 3-20-2019: https://newspaperarchive.com/benton-harbor-herald-palladium-dec-13-1977-p-14/
Ironwood Daily Globe, MI. “Funerals.” 12-12-1977, p. 2. Accessed 3-20-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/daily-globe-dec-12-1977-p-2/
Ironwood Daily Globe, MI. “Winter Storm Blasts Range, U.P., Most of Wisconsin.” 12-9-1977, p. 2. Accessed 3-19-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/ironwood-daily-globe-dec-09-1977-p-2/
Kennebec Journal, Augusta, ME. “Leslie E. Gray.” 12-12-1977, p. 2. Accessed 3-19-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/kennebec-journal-dec-12-1977-p-2/
Kenosha News, WI. “Blame icy streets for traffic death.” 12-7-1977, p. 2. Accessed 3-20-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/kenosha-news-dec-07-1977-p-2/
Kenosha News, WI. “Cold puts the bite on Kenosha.” 12-7-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-20-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/kenosha-news-dec-07-1977-p-2/
Kenosha News, WI. “Deaths.” 12-12-1977, p. 21. Accessed 3-21-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/kenosha-news-dec-12-1977-p-41/
Lima News, OH. “Deaths.” 12-12-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/lima-news-dec-12-1977-p-4/
Lima News, OH. “Putnam man drowns as car slides in pond.” 12-6-1977, p. 4. Accessed 3-15-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/lima-news-dec-06-1977-p-4/
Lima News, OH. “Storm lashes area.” 12-6-1977, p. 6. Accessed 3-15-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/lima-news-dec-06-1977-p-4/
Morris Daily Herald, IL. “Mercury rises; predict snow.” 12-7-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-17-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/morris-daily-herald-dec-07-1977-p-1/
Mt. Vernon Register-News, IL. “Two Die from Exposure.” 12-12-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/mount-vernon-register-news-dec-12-1977-p-1/
National Climatic Center, NOAA. Storm Data, Vol. 19, No. 12, Dec 1977. Accessed 3-15-2019 at: https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/IPS/sd/sd.html
Ottumwa Courier, IA. “Storm leaves 12-inch snow and cold.” 12-6-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-19-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/ottumwa-courier-dec-06-1977-p-1/
Park Forest Star, IL. “Suburbs Lambasted by Snow, Wind, Cold.” 12-11-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/park-forest-star-dec-11-1977-p-1/
Post -Standard, Syracuse, NY. “Accident Blamed on Weather.” 12-6-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/syracuse-post-standard-dec-06-1977-p-1/
Salem News, OH. “28th Road Death Recorded in Crash Near Liverpool.” 12-9-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-15-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/salem-news-dec-09-1977-p-1/
Sandusky Register, OH. “This Weekend is Going to be Bitter Cold.” 12-10-1977, p. A2. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/sandusky-register-dec-10-1977-p-1/
Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. “All Area Roads are Icy, Schools Closed Again.” 12-9-1977, p. 12. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/seymour-daily-tribune-dec-09-1977-p-12/
Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. “Bitter Cold Here Continues.” 12-10-1977, pp. 1 and 14. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/seymour-daily-tribune-dec-10-1977-p-1/
Star-Herald, Tinley Park, IL. “Snow, Wind, Cold Sock Area…” 12-11-1977, p. 5. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/tinley-park-star-herald-dec-11-1977-p-5/
Syracuse Post-Standard, NY “Snowmobiler’s Services Today.”. 12-12-1977, 7C. Accessed 3-17-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/syracuse-post-standard-dec-12-1977-p-26/
The Herald, Jasper, Dubois County, IN. “James L. Haller killed in wreck.” 12-6-1977, p. 2. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/jasper-herald-dec-06-1977-p-1/
The Messenger, Athens, OH. “Area death notices.” 12-9-1977, p. 8. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/athens-messenger-dec-09-1977-p-8/
The Sun, Lowell, MA. “Frigid weather to break tomorrow.” 12-12-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-19-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/lowell-sun-dec-12-1977-p-1/
Times-Bulletin, Van Wert, OH. “County Digs Out of Heavy Snowstorm.” 12-6-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-15-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/van-wert-times-bulletin-dec-06-1977-p-1/
Titusville Herald, PA. “Erie County Storm Misses This Area.” 12-12-1977, p. 5. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/titusville-herald-dec-12-1977-p-5/
United Press International. “At Least 15 Deaths Attributed to Weather,” Pharos-Tribune, Logansport IN, 1-11-1977, p. 27. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/logansport-pharos-tribune-dec-11-1977-p-21/
United Press International. “Cold Weather.” Salem News, OH, 12-13-1977, p. 14. Accessed 3-16-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/salem-news-dec-13-1977-p-14/
United Press International. “Five die in state accidents.” Marshall evening Chronicle, MI. 12-12-1977, p. 2. Accessed 3-20-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/marshall-evening-chronicle-dec-12-1977-p-2/
United Press International. “Gusting winds pile snow clogging roads.” Jacksonville Courier, IL, 12-9-1977, p.32. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/jacksonville-courier-dec-09-1977-p-28/
United Press International. “Heavy snow sweeps over East, Midwest.” Columbia Missourian, 12-6-1977, p. 11. Accessed 3-20-2019: https://newspaperarchive.com/columbia-missourian-newspaper-dec-06-1977-p-11/
United Press International. “Storm again closes schools and roads.” Wellsville Daily Reporter, NY, 12-9-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-17-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/wellsville-daily-reporter-dec-09-1977-p-1/
United Press International. “Storm claims woman, 83.” Journal Tribune, Biddeford, ME, 12-7-1977, p. 2. Accessed 3-19-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/biddeford-city-edition-journal-tribune-dec-07-1977-p-2/
United Press International. “Wind Fells Wall, Worker Killed.” Evening Review, East Liverpool, OH, 12-2-1977, p.4. Accessed 3-15-2019: https://newspaperarchive.com/east-liverpool-evening-review-dec-02-1977-p-11/
United Press International. “Another wintry blast creates new problems.” Linton Daily Citizen, IN. 12-8-1977, 1. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/linton-daily-citizen-dec-08-1977-p-1/
United Press International. “Woman killed on snowmobile.” Morris Daily Herald, IL, 12-9-1977, p. 1. Accessed 3-18-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/morris-daily-herald-dec-09-1977-p-1/
Washington Evening Journal, IA. “Deaths of the Week.” 12-10-1977, p. 5. Accessed 3-19-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/washington-evening-journal-dec-10-1977-p-5/
Wisconsin State Journal, Madison. “Death notices.” 12-12-1977, section 4, page 5. Accessed 3-21-2019 at: https://newspaperarchive.com/madison-wisconsin-state-journal-dec-12-1977-p-53/
[1] Compiled March 2019 by B. Wayne Blanchard for addition to: http://www.usdeadlyevents.com
[2] We note “>” 114 (at least 114) even thought our tally is exactly 114, in that there are shortcomings in our search routine in newspapers. First we need to choose key words to search for. It is quite possible that this does not return all winter weather-related deaths. Secondly, we search newspapers that have been scanned into the newspaper archive service with which we subscribe. We think it probable that other papers, not covered by this archive, note yet other winter weather-related fatalities during December 5-12, 1977.
[3] “The three day [Dec 8-10] onslaught of snow and bitter cold left at least 15 persons dead — 8 in the Chicago area, 3 in Wisconsin and 2 each in Ohio and Michigan. Most of the deaths were attributed to auto accidents on snow-slicked roads or heart attacks caused by shoveling snow.”
[4] National Climatic Center. Storm Data, Vol. 19, No. 12, Dec 1977, p. 2.
[5] “9 Miles West of Wynne on U.S. Highway 64 — Cross County…Strong winds associated with a fast moving cold front blew a tractor-trailer rig into the path of an oncoming Arkansas State Police car. The State Police Trooper was killed and the truck driver was injured.” (National Climatic Center. Storm Data, Vol. 19, No. 12, Dec 1977, p. 2.)
[6] “Sixteen persons are dead in raw arctic cold that followed 7-inch snows in which travelers and farm families were stranded from Effingham [south IL] to Elgin [north IL]….Paul Steilow, 74, collapsed and died as he shoveled snow Friday [9th] outside his Bloomington home. A Rockford newsboy found the body of John Buss, 76 or rural Rockford, partially covered by drifting snow not far from his front door. Authorities said 14 persons died in the six-county region around Chicago. A Palatine woman was killed by a train as she walked into a railroad crossing with her face shielded by a scarf against a wind-chill factor nearing 50 below. A Chicago woman, without gas for failure to pay bills, burned to death after kicking over a kerosene lantern used to heat her home. Others died in winter-related traffic accidents and while shoveling snow.”
[7] Morris Daily Herald, IL. “Mercury rises; predict snow.” 12-7-1977, p. 1.
[8] Associated Press. “16 die when bitter cold, snow strike.” Alton Telegraph, IL, 12-10-1977, p. A-7.
[9] Daily Courier, Connellsville, PA. “Midwest Gets Chilling Memory of Last Winter.” 12-7-1977, p. 3.
[10] Associated Press. “Arctic cold numbs most of west-central Illinois.” The Tribune, Terre Haute, IN, 12-7-1977, 21.
[11] “The three-day onslaught of snow and bitter cold left at least 15 persons dead — 8 in the Chicago area…” Chronicle-Telegram, Elyria, OH. “Snow, bitter cold leaves 15 dead.” 12-11-1977, p. E-4.
[12] Star-Herald, Tinley Park, IL. “Snow, Wind, Cold Sock Area…” 12-11-1977, p. 5. Notes that St. Francis Hospital in Blue Island reported “at least one heart attack fatality incurred by patients shoveling snow.”
[13] Daily Republican-Register, IL. “Howling winds chill northern-central Illinois.” 12-9-1977, p. 1.
[14] Associated Press. “44 Deaths Linked to Zero Weather.” Portsmouth Times, OH, 12-10-1977. p. 1.
[15] Park Forest Star, IL. “Suburbs Lambasted by Snow, Wind, Cold.” 12-11-1977, p. 1.
[16] Star-Herald, Tinley Park, IL. “Snow, Wind, Cold Sock Area…” 12-11-1977, p. 5. Notes that Ingalls Memorial in Harvey reported “at least one heart attack fatality incurred by patients shoveling snow.”
[17] United Press International. “Woman killed on snowmobile.” Morris Daily Herald, IL, 12-9-1977, p. 1.
[18] United Press International. “Gusting winds pile snow clogging roads.” Jacksonville Courier, IL, 12-9-1977, p.32. Another account also notes she slipped and fell, but adds: “Police said she was crossing the track with her head down to keep the snow out of her eyes and apparently did not see the freight train until its engineer sounded the horn.” (Daily Republican-Register, Mt. Carmel IL. “Howling winds chill northern-central Illinois.” 12-9-1977, p. 1.) Highlighted in yellow to denote this death is recorded separately under Palatine.
[19] Star-Herald, Tinley Park, IL. “Snow, Wind, Cold Sock Area…” 12-11-1977, p. 5. Notes that the Palos Community hospital reported “at least one heart attack fatality incurred by patients shoveling snow.”
[20] Galesburg Register-Mail, IL. “Deaths and Funerals.” 12-9-1977, p. 15.
[21] Galesburg Register-Mail, IL. “Deaths and Funerals.” 12-9-1977, p. 15.
[22] Dixon Evening Telegraph, IL. “One area fatality during storm.” 12-6-1977, p. 1. Driver said his vehicle skidded when he tried to stop on snow-packed road.
[23] United Press International. “Gusting winds pile snow clogging roads.” Jacksonville Courier, IL, 12-9-1977, p.32. Another account also notes she slipped and fell, but adds: “Police said she was crossing the track with her head down to keep the snow out of her eyes and apparently did not see the freight train until its engineer sounded the horn.” (Daily Republican-Register, Mt. Carmel IL. “Howling winds chill northern-central Illinois.” 12-9-1977, p. 1.)
[24] Associated Press. “16 die when bitter cold, snow strike.” Alton Telegraph, IL, 12-10-1977, p. A-7.
[25] Victims identified as Steven Davison, 19, of Christopher (driver), and Jeffrey Friend, 21, of Mulkeytown, IL. (Mt. Vernon Register-News, IL. “Two Die from Exposure.” 12-12-1977, p. 1.)
[26] Referring to the Covington area exposure death the night of Dec 10/11, the AP notes this was “the ninth death in Indiana attributed to an early-winter storm that sent temperatures plunging below zero.”
[27] “State police counted eight weather-related deaths–two in crashes on icy roads, four from heart attacks while shoveling or plowing snow and two from exposure.”
[28] Associated Press. “71-Year-Old Frozen To Death.” Anderson Herald, IN, 12-13-1977, p.. 2. Victim identified as Edith Bernice Devenish, 71. AP notes that victim’s “sister stopped by the shack late Saturday afternoon [10th] and urged Miss Devenish to stay with her overnight or at least build a fire. ‘She just absolutely wouldn’t’ DeVerter said….That night, the temperature dropped to nine degrees below zero. The sister returned the next afternoon and found Miss Devinish frozen to death, her body wrapped in three layers of clothing and lying on a bed.”
[29] The Herald, Jasper, IN. “James L. Haller killed in wreck.” 12-6-1977, p. 2. Wreck occurred late 5th or early 6th.
[30] Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. “All Area Roads are Icy, Schools Closed…” 12-9-1977, p. 12.
[31] Anderson Herald, IN. “…Residents Shiver.” 12-8-1977, p. 4. Notes temperatures fell to below zero. Victim identified elsewhere as Goldie Kelly, 77, and notes that the Marion County coroner conducted an autopsy and concluded she died of exposure and heart disease. Also notes she fell outside her daughter’s home. (Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. “All Area Roads are Icy, Schools Closed…” 12-9-1977, p. 12.)
[32] Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. “All Area Roads are Icy, Schools Closed…” 12-9-1977, p. 12.
[33] Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. “All Area Roads are Icy, Schools Closed Again.” 12-9-1977, p. 12.
[34] Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. “All Area Roads are Icy, Schools Closed…” 12-9-1977, p. 12.
[35] Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. “All Area Roads are Icy, Schools Closed…” 12-9-1977, p. 12.
[36] Seymour Daily Tribune, IN. “Bitter Cold Here Continues.” 12-10-1977, p. 14. “State police counted eight weather-related deaths…two from exposure.” We note one exposure death in Indianapolis ~Dec 7.
[37] Cedar Rapids Gazette, IA. “Storm brings death…cold. Five deaths reported in Eastern Iowa.” 12-6-1977, p. 1.
[38] Cedar Rapids Gazette, IA. “Storm brings death…cold. Five deaths reported in Eastern Iowa.” 12-6-1977, p. 1.
[39] Cedar Rapids Gazette, IA. “Storm brings death…cold. Five deaths reported in Eastern Iowa.” 12-6-1977, p. 1.
[40] Des Moines Sunday Register, IA. “Dubuquer, 72, dies after shoveling snow.” 12-11-1977, p. 12D.
[41] Cedar Rapids Gazette, IA. “Storm brings death…cold. Five deaths reported in Eastern Iowa.” 12-6-1977, p.1 & 3.
[42] Associated Press. “Snowmobiler killed.” Fort Madison Democrat, IA. 12-10-1977, p. 2.
[43] Cedar Rapids Gazette, IA. “Storm brings death…cold. Five deaths reported in Eastern Iowa.” 12-6-1977, p.1 & 3.
[44] Ottumwa Courier, IA. “Storm leaves 12-inch snow and cold.” 12-6-1977, p. 1.
[45] Washington Evening Journal, IA. “Deaths of the Week.” 12-10-1977, p. 5.
[46] Associated Press. “2 Storms Bring Bitter Cold Days.” Portsmouth Times, OH, 12-8-1977, p. 1.
[47] Associated Press. “2 Storms Bring Bitter Cold Days.” Portsmouth Times, OH, 12-8-1977, p. 1.
[48] Kennebec Journal, Augusta, ME. “Leslie E. Gray.” 12-12-1977, p. 2.
[49] The Sun, Lowell, MA. “Frigid weather to break tomorrow.” 12-12-1977, p. 1.
[50] Ironwood Daily Globe, MI. “Funerals.” 12-12-1977, p. 2.
[51] United Press International. “Five die in state accidents.” Marshall evening Chronicle, MI. 12-12-1977, p. 2.
[52] Associated Press. “Michigan Can Expect Break in Snowstorm.” Ludington Daily News, MI, 12-10-1977, p. 1.
[53] Associated Press. “Michigan Can Expect Break in Snowstorm.” Ludington Daily News, MI, 12-10-1977, p. 1.
[54] Associated Press. “Michigan Can Expect Break in Snowstorm.” Ludington Daily News, MI, 12-10-1977, p. 1.
[55] Associated Press. “Fumes Kill Boy, 5, in Stalled Car.” Herald-Palladium, Benton Harbor, MI, 12-12-1977, p. 18.
[56] United Press International. “Five die in state accidents.” Marshall evening Chronicle, MI. 12-12-1977, p. 2.
[57] Herald-Palladium, Benton Harbor, MI. “Holland Woman Dies in Crash.” 12-13-1977, p. 14. Victim identified as Pamela Vanderkolk, 19, of Holland, MI.
[58] United Press International. “Five die in state accidents.” Marshall evening Chronicle, MI. 12-12-1977, p. 2.
[59] Associated Press. “Cars Stranded as Snow, Cold Zero In.” Portsmouth Times, OH, 12-9-1977, p. 1.
[60] United Press International. “Five die in state accidents.” Marshall evening Chronicle, MI. 12-12-1977, p. 2.
[61] Ironwood Daily Globe, MI. “Winter Storm Blasts Range, U.P., Most of Wisconsin.” 12-9-1977, p. 2.
[62] Daily News-Bulletin, Brookfield, MO. “Services Set for Dr. Dorrell.” 12-6-1977, p. 7.
[63] Victim identified as Arlene Ruth Casteel, 46, of Annapolis. (Associated Press. “Icy weather plagues state.” Sedalia Democrat, MO. 12-8-1977, p. 1.)
[64] Atchison Daily Globe, KS. “Local Nun Dies in Crash.” 12-8-1977, p. 1. Victim identified as Sister Avina Martinez. Paper cites law enforcement for stating slick and icy conditions were probably the cause of the accident.
[65] Associated Press. “Road conditions still hazardous.” Daily Capital News, MO, 12-7-1977, p. 1. The tractor-trailer truck driver killed in this “weather-related death” was William M. Palmer, 45, of St. Louis.
[66] United Press International. “Storm claims woman, 83.” Journal Tribune, Biddeford, ME, 12-7-1977, p. 2. “Police said the woman apparently wandered from her house.”
[67] Associated Press. “Jaffrey woman found dead.” Portsmouth Herald, NH, 12-12-1977, p. 2.
[68] Associated Press. “New Yorkers begin snow removal effort.” Bradford Era, PA, 12-7-1977, p. 15.
[69] Associated Press. “New Yorkers begin snow removal effort.” Bradford Era, PA, 12-7-1977, p. 15.
[70] Victim identified as Richard K. Dodge, 40 of Syracuse. The out-of-control car hit a second car which hit Dodge’s car. (Post -Standard, Syracuse, NY. “Accident Blamed on Weather.” 12-6-1977, p. 1.)
[71] United Press International. “Storm again closes schools and roads.” Wellsville Daily Reporter, NY, 12-9-1977, 1.
[72] Syracuse Post-Standard, NY “Snowmobiler’s Services Today.”. 12-12-1977, 7C.
[73] Associated Press. “New Yorkers begin snow removal effort.” Bradford Era, PA, 12-7-1977, p. 15.
[74] National Climatic Center, NOAA. Storm Data, Vol. 19, No. 12, Dec 1977, p. 6.
[75] The Messenger, Athens, OH. “Area death notices.” 12-9-1977, p. 8. Victim was Leslie H. Bailey, 54.
[76] Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Storm Deaths Hit 11.” 12-10-1977, p. 1.
[77] UPI. “Cold Weather.” Salem News, OH, 12-13-1977, p. 14; Nat. Climatic Ctr., Storm Data, 19/12, Dec 1977, p. 6. UPI article notes his body was not found until several days later. He had left some companions to look for help.
[78] Victim identified as Paul H. Villnave, 57, of East Liverpool. (Salem News, OH. “28th Road Death Recorded in Crash Near Liverpool.” 12-9-1977, p. 1.)
[79] Associated Press. “44 Deaths Linked to Zero Weather.” Portsmouth Times, OH, 12-10-1977. p. 1.
[80] Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Storm Deaths Hit 11.” 12-10-1977, p. 1.
[81] Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Storm Deaths Hit 11.” 12-10-1977, p. 1.
[82] Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Storm.” 12-10-1977, p. 12.
[83] Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Storm Deaths Hit 11.” 12-10-1977, pp. 1 and 12.
[84] Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Storm Deaths Hit 11.” 12-10-1977, p. 1.
[85] Chronicle-Telegram, Elyria, OH. “Elyria,, area deaths.” 12-10-1977, p. C-2.
[86] Chronicle-Telegram, Elyria, OH. “Frigid air to hover here at least a few more days.” 12-10-1977, p. 1.
[87] Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Storm Deaths Hit 11.” 12-10-1977, p. 1.
[88] Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Storm Deaths Hit 11.” 12-10-1977, p. 1.
[89] Lima News, OH. “Deaths.” 12-12-1977, p. 1.
[90] Emma Hollaway, 86. Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Storm.” 12-10-1977, p. 12.
[91] Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Storm.” 12-10-1977, p. 12.
[92] Crescent-News, Defiance, OH. “Area and Other Deaths.” 12-9-1977, p. 14.
[93] Associated Press. “44 Deaths Linked to Zero Weather.” Portsmouth Times, OH, 12-10-1977. p. 1.
[94] Lima News, OH. “Storm lashes area.” 12-6-1977, p. 6; National Climatic Center, NOAA. Storm Data, V19, N12, Dec 1977, p. 6. The Lima News articles writes that the victim “got to work early…and apparently stayed in his car in a parking lot with the motor running to keep warm. Authorities said he many have lost consciousness. The car overheated and burst into flames…”
[95] Lima News, OH. “Putnam man drowns as car slides in pond.” 12-6-1977, p. 4. National Climatic Center, NOAA. Storm Data, V19, N12, Dec 1977, p. 6.
[96] Associated Press. “Icy Mix Forecast For Ohio.” Portsmouth Times, OH, 12-8-1977, p. 1.
[97] Times-Bulletin, Van Wert, OH. “County Digs Out of Heavy Snowstorm.” 12-6-1977, p. 1.
[98] Associated Press. “Bradford Fifteen Inches Snow.” Courier-Express, DuBois, PA, 12-6-1977, p. 1.
[99] Daily Intelligencer, Doylestown, PA. “Dublin man dies as auto, camper collide…on icy road.” 12-6-1977, p. 1.
[100] National Climatic Center, NOAA. Storm Data, Vol. 19, No. 12, Dec 1977, p. 7.
[101] National Climatic Center, NOAA. Storm Data, Vol. 19, No. 12, Dec 1977, p. 7.
[102] Associated Press. “NW Penna. Hit.” The Evening Standard, Uniontown, PA, 12-8-1977, p. 13. Also: Storm Data.
[103] Associated Press. “NW Penna. Hit.” The Evening Standard, Uniontown, PA, 12-8-1977, p. 13. Also: Storm Data.
[104] National Climatic Center, NOAA. Storm Data, Vol. 19, No. 12, Dec 1977, p. 7.
[105] Story cites Pittsburgh police and identifies victim as Edward Klippi, 55, of West Leisenring, Fayette County. Associated Press. “NW Penna. Hit.” The Evening Standard, Uniontown, PA, 12-8-1977, p. 13. Newspaper account identified victim as Curtis E. Lemons, 34 of Cochranton, RD 1. Paper notes victim’s “car went out of control and skidded across the centerline of the four-lane highway, striking an oncoming car.” (Titusville Herald, PA. “Erie County Storm Misses This Area.” 12-12-1977, p. 5.)
[106] Victim identified as James Jury, 51. Daily American, Somerset, PA. “Snow, Wind Freeze Area.” 12-7-1977, p. 1.
[107] Wisconsin State Journal, Madison. “Death notices.” 12-12-1977, section 4, page 5.
[108] Kenosha News, WI. “Blame icy streets for traffic death.” 12-7-1977, p. 2.
[109] Kenosha News, WI. “Deaths.” 12-12-1977, p. 21.
[110] Associated Press. “Storm turns nation into giant icebox.” Syracuse Herald-Journal, 12-9-1977, p. 6.
[111] Kenosha News, WI. “Cold puts the bite on Kenosha.” 12-7-1977, p. 1.
[112] Ironwood Daily Globe, MI. “Winter Storm Blasts Range, U.P., Most of Wisconsin.” 12-9-1977, p. 2. Victim identified as Michael F. Birshbach, 17, of rural St. Cloud.
[113] Sandusky Register, OH. “This Weekend is Going to be Bitter Cold.” 12-10-1977, p. A2.