4-17-18 Northern Plains: Latest details on accumulating snow risks late today into tomorrow. B.

Today’s Video: 

Good Tuesday morning everyone! 

Winter Weather Advisories and Winter Storm Warnings have been issued for portions of Eastern South Dakota and Southern Minnesota for snow risks that will develop in the area especially overnight tonight and into tomorrow: 

Scattered rain and snow showers will develop across the Dakotas this afternoon and into tonight. Some light snow accumulations on grassy surfaces are possible – perhaps 1″ with isolated higher totals, but impacts to roads are likely given above freezing temperatures. The bigger story will be the heavier snow that develops for Eastern South Dakota and Southern Minnesota where temperatures are closer to freezing and the changeover from rain to snow will occur quicker. This will be the area that also sees the best dynamics and upward motion favorable for a thump of heavy snow. This heavier burst will begin to change from rain to snow in Central South Dakota overnight tonight and work into Eastern South Dakota by 4AM CST tomorrow. Snow likely moves into Southern Minnesota by 6AM CST tomorrow. Snow exits South Dakota tomorrow evening and finally gets out of Minnesota by midnight tomorrow. 

As of now, we’re targeting areas in Southern Minnesota for the best chance of 3-6″ of snow with this storm with a few spots in SE South Dakota at risk for this heavier snow band as well. Accumulating snow is also possible for much of Central South Dakota – but lighter amounts are likely.

Winds will also be gusty especially during the latter half of the event with wind gusts of 20-25 MPH with isolated higher gusts at times. This will create low visibilities and hazardous travel conditions on Wednesday. 

Things will dry out the days following this snow chance and warm up a bit. Here’s a look at the high temperatures and cloud cover over the next four days:

We do have a system to watch late Friday into Saturday. The European model is hinting at just a few scattered showers but mostly dry through the weekend. Right now we’re leaning towards this solution given high pressure lingering to the north. 

This high pressure will also give us some lighter winds especially in Northeastern portions of the area Thursday and Friday: 

If you have any questions do not hesitate to reach out and have a great rest of your Tuesday!