Seems completely plausible, and I've definitely experienced what you're describing. You quiet a room down by putting soft stuff all over the walls, and what's softer than new-fallen snow?
For sure. It's a well known fact that the reason Nordies are so reserved is that they're used to the quiet atmosphere of snowy forests and hillsides.
Interesting! We got 16" overnight (and it's still coming down), so it should be extra quiet if I venture outside today... :-)