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Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain Across the Southern and Eastern US; Heat and Fire Weather Concerns in the West

Showers and thunderstorms are expected across the southern and eastern US this week, with heavy rain and localized flooding, particularly near the Gulf Coast. Monsoonal moisture will bring rain and potential flooding to parts of the Southwest. Heat and fire weather threats will continue to impact the West. Read More >

Overview

A large storm brought heavy rain and historic late season snowfall to the Black Hills region May 20-22, 2019. A powerful low pressure system slowly moved from the Four Corners region northward through the Plains during this time, leading to a prolonged period of precipitation to western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming.

Precipitation type throughout the event was largely dependent on elevation. Locations on the plains north and east of Rapid City saw predominantly rain, while higher elevations in the foothills just to the west and south of Rapid City and the Black Hills received several inches, or even multiple feet, of snow.

For the Black Hills and western South Dakota plains, this three-day period was among the coldest, wettest, and snowiest stretches on record over the latter half of May, with several temperature and precipitation records set.

Enjoying the snow with a cup of coffee south of Deadwood!
Enjoying the snow with a cup of coffee south of Deadwood!
Photo by Michele S 
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