A major spring snowstorm could bring heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerous travel conditions to Sioux County this weekend.
According to Sioux County Emergency Management, the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls held a weather briefing on Friday, indicating a Winter Storm Watch is in effect for the region from Saturday into Monday morning.
Forecasters say light snow could begin Saturday morning, with the most significant snowfall expected Saturday night through Sunday. Snowfall rates could exceed one inch per hour at times during the heaviest bands.
The storm will also bring strong winds that could create near-blizzard conditions.
The National Weather Service says wind gusts may reach 40 to 50 miles per hour Saturday night into Sunday, which could lead to significant blowing and drifting snow and sharply reduced visibility.
Travel conditions across northwest Iowa could become very difficult or dangerous, particularly Saturday night through Sunday, and blowing snow may continue to impact roads even after snowfall tapers off.
Forecast graphics from the weather service indicate moderate to heavy snow developing late Saturday night and continuing into Sunday, with the greatest impacts expected during that period.
Emergency management officials also warn that heavy, wet snow combined with strong winds could lead to localized power outages and tree damage.
Conditions may linger into early next week. Winds are expected to remain strong into Monday, and colder temperatures could create wind chills well below zero while drifting snow continues to impact travel.
Forecasters say confidence is high that strong winds and travel impacts will occur, though exact snowfall totals may still change depending on the track of the storm.
Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring forecasts and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions through the weekend.
