Sioux Falls, SD – A rare weather phenomenon known as thundersnow may occur across parts of southeast South Dakota, northwest Iowa, and southwest Minnesota early this morning, as an intense band of snow moves through the region.
The National Weather Service in Sioux Falls reports that the storm system is producing heavy snowfall rates near 1 inch per hour, with lightning already detected within the snow band.
Heavy Snow Band Moving South
Radar early this morning showed a narrow but intense band of heavy snow stretching along Interstate 90, moving southward through the region.
Forecasters say the snow band will continue moving south into northwest Iowa and southeast South Dakota toward sunrise.
Dangerous Travel Conditions
The intense snowfall could significantly impact travel.
Possible impacts include:
- Visibility dropping below half a mile
- Snow-covered and potentially icy roads
- Rapidly changing travel conditions
The National Weather Service warns that travel may become dangerous as the snow band moves through, especially during periods of the heaviest snowfall.
Short-Lived but Intense
Meteorologists say the heavy snow band will likely last about two hours in any one location, but snowfall rates during that time could quickly accumulate and create hazardous conditions.
Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and monitor weather updates as the storm continues to move across the region.
