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Lake-Effect Snow Downwind of Lake Ontario; Cold Temperatures in the Across the Northern High Plains

Lake effect snow will continue downwind of Lake Ontario through Monday, potentially dropping up to a foot of snow. A few inches of snow is possible downwind of Lake Erie. Arctic high pressure will usher in well below normal temperatures across the northern High Plains today through Monday. Temperatures are expected to be 20-30 degrees below normal before moderating Tuesday. 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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