Winter storm expected to hit the Northern Plains with heavy snow and high winds

A potent snowstorm to hit the region on Tuesday

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for vast parts of the Northern Plains, including western South Dakota, eastern Wyoming and northern Nebraska as a potent snowstorm is expected to hit the regions on Tuesday. The storm system will bring heavy snow, strong winds that could lead to blizzard conditions, and severe thunderstorms across much of the Mississippi River Valley.

Weak cold front on Monday

Before the storm hits on Tuesday, a weak cold front will swing through on Monday, making it colder and cloudy in some parts of the region. Conditions should be fine for travel on Monday.

Heavy snowfall expected

The snow will move from the south to the north on Tuesday, hitting the I94 corridor first before reaching Highway 2 and areas north by midday. Heavy snowfall is expected to start from Monday evening and last until Wednesday morning. Areas could see 6″-12″ of snow, but many areas will likely see over 12″ of snow. In some areas, the storm may bring more than a foot of snow.

High winds and blizzard conditions

Winds will increase during the day on Tuesday, with gusts up to 40mph, creating low visibility where it is snowing. On Wednesday, the wind will ramp up to 25-40mph from the northwest with gusts topping 50mph, creating whiteout conditions and halting travel.

The strong winds will continue blowing snow around hours after the snow has actually stopped. High winds on Tuesday could gust over 55 MPH leading to likely blizzard conditions. Blizzard warnings are expected to last through Wednesday evening.

Uncertainties in icy weather

A strong low-pressure system is expected to move out of Colorado early Tuesday, spreading snow, sleet, and freezing rain along and north of its path. Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are likely to form throughout the Mississippi River Valley from Iowa to the south, on the warm side of the storm. Uncertainties in the track of the low and placement of sleet and freezing rain make it difficult to predict precise snow totals in the region.

Impacts on travel, agriculture, schools and more

The storm is expected to significantly impact travel, agriculture, business operations, schools, and interstate travel. Alternate travel arrangements should be considered for Tuesday through Thursday morning.

Ranchers and those in calving season are advised to complete preparations no later than Monday noon. With heavy snowfall and high winds expected, it is important to ensure that livestock is sheltered from extreme conditions.

While many schools are closed on Tuesday due to winter break, there are concerns about bus routes for Wednesday morning given heavy snow accumulation.

Blanket of snow predicted for Black Hills Region

Areas in the Black Hills region should expect heavy snow lasting from Monday evening to Wednesday morning. While areas could see 6″-12″ of snow, many will likely see over 12″ of snow. Temperatures on Tuesday will struggle to climb above the high 10s/low 20s. A winter storm watch has been issued for the entire Newscenter1 viewing area.

The time for preparation is now

People across the region need to start preparing for this potent winter storm which is expected Tuesday onwards. The time to prepare is now, and preparations should be finished by noon on Monday. Blizzard conditions with heavy blowing and drifting along with extremely low visibility are likely to develop from Tuesday and may last into Thursday morning. Therefore, it is better to stay inside if possible and avoid traveling during stormy conditions.

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