Last week, an intense snowstorm hit Alaska's Richardson Highway, unleashing an astonishing six feet of snow in less than 24 hours. The incredible snowfall occurred near Mile 46 along the highway, situated between the Chugach and Alaska ranges. This remarkable event brought attention to the existing national record for the most snowfall in a single day, set at 78 inches on February 7, 1963, just a mile away from the recent snowfall location.

The 1963 snowfall record of 78 inches has long been a subject of debate and skepticism among climatologists. Despite the State Climate Extremes Committee recognizing it as Alaska's record, the National Climate Extremes Committee rejected the measurement as improbable when considering it for the national record.

Renowned climatologist Brian Brettschneider recently revisited the controversial 1963 measurement by conducting an investigation. In his blog, Brettschneider noted a few red flags surrounding the record. For instance, on the same day in February 1963, an observer at nearby Thompson Pass only recorded 2.2 inches of snow, which was significantly less. Additionally, Lane, the observer who documented the 78-inch measurement, did not provide any comments on the exceptional snowfall in the adjacent column.

However, after intensive research and interviews, Brettschneider found compelling evidence in support of Lane's measurement. Lane vividly remembered that day, recounting how the snowflakes fell as large as silver dollars. He narrowly escaped an avalanche that engulfed him and his snowplow.

Brettschneider proposed a possible scenario for the record-breaking day in 1963. He suggested that a strong, moisture-laden storm flowed from the southern coast through the Tiekel River valley, colliding with a cold air mass formed by the Copper River Valley. This collision, combined with the lifting effect of the mountains, could have resulted in the massive snowfall.

Taking advantage of the recent near-record snowfall along the Richardson Highway, Brettschneider intends to resubmit the 1963 measurement to the National Climate Extremes Committee. By using the six-foot snowfall recorded just last week as supporting evidence, he hopes to overturn the committee's previous rejection and reinstate Lane's 78-inch measurement as the official national record.

While the process may take some time, if successful, Alaska will reclaim the national record, surpassing the currently listed record of 75.8 inches set in April 1921 in Silver Lake, Colorado. The evaluation and decision by the National Climate Extremes Committee will be eagerly awaited by weather enthusiasts and Alaskans alike.

The Richardson Highway's recent brush with the record books serves as a reminder of the state's extreme weather conditions and the astonishing snowfall that can occur in certain areas. As Alaska embraces its cryosphere status, it continues to captivate with its unique and awe-inspiring winter landscapes.