Today’s Video:
http://youtu.be/y7h3B0GVSV4?hd=1
Snow that began last night is continuing on for Eastern South Dakota and Southern Minnesota this morning. Heavy snow accumulations are possible in some areas with up to 9″ already being reported in extreme Southeast South Dakota.
This snow will continue throughout most of the day with the heaviest additional snow likely occurring in the southern two rows of Minnesota along the Iowa border. Snow likely doesn’t exit South Dakota and Southwest Minnesota until around 6-7PM CST tonight with just a few lingering snow showers at that time. Snow continues for Southeast Minnesota until around 9PM CST tonight before the system works to the south and east. 
Given the duration, current intensity and latest data, here’s a look at our updated snow threat map into tonight. Still targeting far SE South Dakota and the Minnesota/Iowa border for the best shot at heavy accumulating snow. Given current radar trends and observations, a foot of snow is certainly on the table by the time this system is over in isolated spots with the heaviest banding.
However, as we head into the overnight hours high pressure will push all precipitation risks out of the area and fog could develop in spots tomorrow morning. We’ve circled the areas that have the best chance to see fog (which could cause a few slick spots) tomorrow morning:
More fog chances are possible on Friday morning before the next system begins to work in from the south late in the day and into Saturday. Big differences still remain between model data with the GFS being much further north and more robust with the system while the European is drier and further south. Other model data is more in line with the European model so we’re thinking South Dakota will deal with lighter rain at this time – but we’ll carefully watch trends the rest of the week.
The good news is we’re going to warm up quite a bit over the next few days! Here’s a look at high and low temperatures through Saturday.
Some gusty winds of 20-25 MPH cannot be ruled out with today’s snow, but as high pressure moves in the stronger winds will be focused towards the Western Dakotas. Stronger southerly winds allow temperatures to get into the 60s for many areas on Saturday and Sunday!
As high pressure moves in sunshine will re-appear for much of the area tomorrow before the late week storm brings a return to cloudy skies for much of the area Friday.
Here’s a look at the total precipitation forecast over the next 7 days for the European and the GFS. Note, the handling of the late week system has created big differences in the model data. Again, leaning towards the European solution, but showing the GFS to display the risks with the forecast.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out! Have a great day!