South Dakota Braces For Spring Storm: What To Expect in Sioux Falls
Hey, did you wake up today and think, "What in the #$%@ is going on with the weather?" I know I did. We keep hearing about this winter weather system that's baring down on...someone.
I wanted to find out what's up with the weather this weekend, will it snow in Sioux Falls? How Much?
MORE: Here’s Where to Find Sioux Falls Winter Weather Info, Snow Alerts, and Road Reports
UPDATED 7:30 AM 3/22/24
"Confidence continues to grow that a strong storm will impact the northern Plains this weekend into early next week....Uncertainty still remains in regard to timing and the
track of this system, which will ultimately affect precipitation types and amounts...A combination of heavy snow and gusty winds will likely produce areas of blowing and drifting snow, as well as possible blizzard conditions Sunday into Monday. Travel disruptions will be likely, so plan accordingly!" -NWS SIOUX FALLS
Is It Going to Be Super Cold This Weekend?
Since it's March, we, fortunately, won't have to deal with extremely dangerous temperatures. Highs in the 30s and lows in the teens are what we can expect through Monday (3/25).
Will This Winter Storm Hit Sioux Falls?
Let's get to the heart of the matter. Yes, there is a good-sized winter weather system that will sweep out of the northwest and bring snow, rain, and wind to parts of North and South Dakota, and Minnesota.
Thursday evening, the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls said that there could be some snow in Sioux Falls tonight or early Friday morning. But, the big show for the city is expected to start on Saturday (3/24).
"A large spring storm system arrives late this weekend, lingering into early next week. Widespread regional precipitation is expected, including heavy snow with light icing possible. However, the exact timing and track of the system are uncertain, leading to uncertainty in amounts and location of snow accumulations. Keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared to alter travel plans!" - National Weather Service Sioux Falls
Timeline for This Weekend's Winter Storm
This weekend's (March 23-24) storm is expected to move into the Dakotas and Minnesota Friday into Saturday. Wintry conditions are expected to last through Monday.
When Will It Start To Snow in Sioux Falls?
The real fun in Sioux Falls is expected to later on Saturday when the snow starts to fall in earnest. And just for the fun of it, there may be some rain and thunder mixed in along the way. Welcome to South Dakota :)
How Much Snow Will Sioux Falls Get?
The snow should continue in Sioux Falls throughout the day Saturday, maybe mixing with some rain. Snow and maybe some rain can be expected on Palm Sunday and into Monday (3/25). Winds are also expected to pick up.
From the looks of the models, the heaviest snow will fall north of Sioux Falls and into central Minnesota and eastern North Dakota. Sioux Falls could see several inches of snow, especially Sunday into Monday.
The main thing right now is to remember that there is a lot of uncertainty about the specifics of this storm. But, a storm with snow and rain is coming. It looks like Sioux Falls will be on the southern end of the system. So, maybe we'll get lucky and not get buried, just wet.
If you have travel plans this weekend, keep an eye on the weather and road conditions, and follow the Sioux Falls office of the National Weather Service on Facebook or Twitter.
Also, our friends at Dakota News Now are a great resource.
LOOK: Biggest snowfalls recorded in South Dakota history
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