Back-to-Back Winter Storms Take a Toll on Small Businesses — Here’s How the Community Can Help

After two consecutive weekends of winter weather — first an ice storm and then a significant snowstorm — many locally owned businesses are feeling the impact of lost sales during what are typically some of their busiest days.

Hazardous roads, freezing temperatures, and lingering snow forced numerous small businesses to close their doors, cancel appointments, and lose critical in-person traffic not just once, but twice in a short span of time. For many independent retailers, restaurants, and service providers, weekends represent a substantial portion of their weekly revenue.

When those days disappear, the financial strain doesn’t simply melt away with the snow.

Unlike large national chains with broader financial cushions or robust online sales platforms, small businesses often operate with tighter margins. They depend on consistent foot traffic and scheduled services to cover payroll, rent, utilities, and inventory. Restaurants may have purchased perishable ingredients in anticipation of weekend crowds. Salons, boutiques, and appointment-based businesses often can’t fully make up for missed bookings later in the week.

The result is a ripple effect that extends beyond a single storefront. Small businesses support local jobs, contribute to community events, and help shape the character and identity of our towns. When they struggle, the entire community feels it.

As conditions improve and routines return to normal, residents can play a meaningful role in helping local businesses recover. Even small actions can make a difference, including:

• Dining at a locally owned restaurant

• Shopping at neighborhood stores instead of ordering online

• Purchasing gift cards for future use

• Rescheduling appointments that were canceled due to weather

• Sharing a favorite business on social media

• Leaving a positive online review

Patience is also appreciated. After multiple weather disruptions, some businesses may still be working through staffing gaps, delayed shipments, or scheduling backlogs.

Winter weather may be temporary, but the economic effects can linger. Choosing to shop, dine, and book services locally in the days and weeks ahead is one of the most direct ways community members can help small businesses regain momentum after an unusually disruptive stretch of winter storms.

Supporting local doesn’t just help businesses recover — it helps keep the heart of the community strong year-round.