The Blizzard in the West: Being as Record and Story of the Disastrous Storm which Raged Throughout Devon and Cornwall, and West Somerset, On the Night of March 9th, 1891

"The Blizzard in the West" by Unknown is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book chronicles the disastrous storm that struck Devon, Cornwall, and West Somerset on the night of March 9th, 1891. It documents the experiences of the communities affected by the blizzard, detailing the significant destruction and chaos that ensued. The narrative sets the stage for recounting the human struggles, property damage, and meteorological phenomena resulting from the storm. At the start of the text, the author presents a preface that outlines the purpose of documenting the blizzard, which was in response to local requests for a detailed account of the event. Following this, the first chapter, titled "Indications and Observations," lays the groundwork for the storm’s onset, highlighting the unanticipated severity of the weather as residents went about their daily routines. It points out the lack of preparation and the prevailing conditions that led to the chaos that unfolded. The chapter sets a tone of foreboding as it describes the gradual build-up to the storm, the absence of adequate warnings, and the ensuing chaos that enveloped the towns and countryside when the blizzard finally arrived.