First Snowfall of Season Blankets Eastern South Dakota
Eastern South Dakota experienced its first snowfall of the season early today, transforming the landscape from autumn to winter overnight.
Residents across the region woke to a surprising amount of snow following a relatively warm yesterday. “I’d like to believe we’re always ready for the snow,” said Brandon resident Taylor Staab. “I mentally prepare myself [and say], ‘Once Halloween hits, it can snow.’ It wasn’t really a surprise when I woke up.” The early snowfall is a significant event for winter recreation businesses, like ski resorts, hoping for a long season.
The timing of the snow proved ideal for Great Bear Ski Valley’s Welcome Winter Fest and Ski Swap. “We couldn’t have been happier to wake up this morning and see snow on the ground,” exclaimed Alexa Jerstad, Assistant General Manager at Great Bear. While snowmaking is not yet possible due to temperatures, the snowfall has generated excitement for the upcoming ski season. Power outages were reported in Sioux Falls, with approximately 6,000 customers losing electricity due to the snowfall, according to Xcel Energy. Road conditions were generally manageable, though wet and slushy, with only a few reported incidents.
Many residents expressed enthusiasm for the return of winter weather. “I’m always excited when South Dakota gets snow because, in my mind, South Dakota has to have snow,” Staab explained. South Dakota’s climate is known for its harsh winters, and early snowfall can impact travel and infrastructure throughout the state; you can find more information about winter weather preparedness from the National Weather Service.
Officials are advising drivers to exercise caution and anticipate potentially worsening conditions as temperatures drop and more snow is possible in the coming days.
