CHARLOTTE, N.C. — December snow in Charlotte is rare, so rare that our biggest December snowfalls all happened decades ago. Let’s take a look back at the biggest ones since modern records began in the 1940s and why they still stand out today.

1. Dec. 3, 1971: This early-season storm dumped 7.5 inches in Charlotte, and more than a foot just west of the city. This one tops the list. And winter had barely started.

Lincolnton and Lake Lure topped a foot of snow. Icy roads led to six deaths and numerous injuries across North Carolina.

2. Dec. 14, 1958: Talk about weather whiplash.

Just days before, a major storm missed Charlotte and pummeled eastern North Carolina. This time, the tables turned. Charlotte collected almost three inches, while eastern areas battled a nasty ice storm.

3. Dec.

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