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Heavy Rainfall Continues from the Southwest to the Plains; Severe Thunderstorms in the Southern Plains

Pacific tropical moisture wrapping into a storm will continue a multi-day heavy rainfall event this week that will impact the Southwest into the Plains. Scattered severe thunderstorms capable of mainly severe wind gusts appear possible across portions of the southern Plains this afternoon into tonight. There is also a risk of isolated severe winds gusts and tornadoes in Kansas into Nebraska. Read More >

Overview

A large winter storm moved through the region on March 9, 2019, bringing a mix of precipitation and snow. As the main system moved northward into the region, precipitation started as freezing rain at many locations. Ice accumulations up to a tenth of an inch were reported. This resulted in hazardous travel conditions in the early morning hours.

Precipitation changed over to rain through the morning, before transitioning over to all snow from west to east by midday. Moderate rain (including a record rainfall of 0.86 inches at the Sioux Falls Airport) and poor drainage due to snow on the ground, created ponding water and street flooding around the Sioux Falls metro area.

Following the change to snow, gusty northwest winds caused drifting snow which iced over on several roads, prompting the closure of Interstate 90 west of Mitchell from Saturday evening until early Sunday morning.

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Flooded street in southeast Sioux Falls turning to slush as snow starts to accumulate. (Photo courtesy Galen Smidt)
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