Today’s Video:
Good morning everyone! A weak wave from the Central Plains is lifting northeastward and bringing light rains to mainly the southern portions of SD, mixing with snow in the Blackhills. However, a majority of the precipitation depicted from the Pierre area to Sioux City is not reaching the ground as the northern periphery of the rain shield is battling dry air.
Simulated radar through 1pm CDT Friday: Watch for the light rains to progress eastward through the day and impact mainly southern SD through the day, then mainly a drizzle risk for southern/central SD into tonight given low-level saturation. While not shown, there is the potential for light snow mixing with the rain in east-central SD late tonight into Thursday morning, but most guidance is hesitant on the idea. Another wave, this time further north into northern ND will bring rain showers mixing with snow at times late tonight through Thursday, lifting out Thursday evening. A general 0.1-0.5″ of liquid is expected in southern SD with locally higher amounts near Sioux City. Around 0.1″ is likely in northern ND.
We’re eyeing fog risks Thursday morning but especially into Friday morning given warmer temperatures over still relatively cool grounds. Watch for this higher threat in the eastern Dakotas Friday morning.
Additional disturbances will bring rain chances to the Dakotas, but in general will remain lighter in nature. Targeting Friday night into Saturday morning for eastern SD, then patchy showers Saturday evening elsewhere with a greater focus heading into the overnight in the far eastern Dakotas. From Sunday afternoon through Tuesday, the bulk of the area will be dry with only patchy shower chances.
Here’s a look at 7-day precipitation: Most are susceptible to 0.1-0.3″ of liquid through this timespan, but greater forcing and a strengthening wave southeast of the area will bring higher amounts of 0.5-1″+ in the eastern third of SD. Not expecting heavy precipitation for most, but multiple waves will bring light rain chances.
Here’s a look at temperatures over the next four days: Temperatures will quickly ramp up into late work week and the weekend as the upper-level trough that has hung around over the last few days lifts out and is replaced with building heights and southwest flow aloft. Watch for additional flooding risks along area tributaries as the remaining snowpack melts during this period.
Wind forecast over the next four days:
Here’s a look at the city charts for Bismarck, Pierre and Sioux Falls:
If you have any questions do not hesitate to reach out! Have a great day!