Northeast South Dakota Gets Socked With Snow

Every time a winter storm comes to KELOLAND, the far northeastern part of South Dakota seems to get the worst of it.

We knew from experience that this past weekend's storm would bring a heavy dose of snow to northeastern South Dakota and a sliver of Southwest Minnesota. 

The current fast-moving Clipper system is dumping its snow on the nose of Coteau Des Prairies. The rise of the land there is subtle compared to higher mountain ranges, but offers just enough lift to force moisture higher. Summit, South Dakota's elevation is about 2,000 feet. By contrast, Aberdeen is almost 700 feet lower. 

As warm and moist air gets pushed up, it cools down and condenses. Often, that's enough elevation to produce more moisture.

The area is also known for distinct features besides higher snow totals. We also see more fog in the far northeast and especially in Southwest Minnesota. When we have an inversion and easterly winds, the fog never seems to clear. 

Winds above the surface are also sometimes much stronger, FutureScan winds show Thursday morning's breeze riding along the Coteau and Buffalo Ridge at more than 20 miles per hour. 

Ditches are already full of plowed snow from past storms which will cause more drifting, which could clog rural roads and interstates as more snow continues to blanket the area.