This Day in Weather History: March 13th

Weather History - March 13th

Local and Regional Events:

March 13th, 1971:

Lightning destroyed a transformer plant at Coleman in Moody County during an evening thunderstorm. Damages were estimated at $250,000.

March 13th, 1997:

A winter storm began with widespread freezing drizzle, creating icy roadways and walkways before changing to snow. Before the snow was over, 2 to 8 inches had fallen on an already expansive and deep snowpack. The winds accelerated to 20 to 40 mph, resulting in widespread blowing and drifting snow. Visibilities were reduced to near zero at times, making travel treacherous. Many roads again became blocked by snowdrifts, and several were closed. Many area schools were still closed, adding to an already substantial total of days missed for the winter season. Some people were stranded and had to wait out the storm. Some airport flights were canceled. The icy roads and low visibility resulted in several vehicle mishaps as well. There was a rollover accident west of Mobridge and an overturned van 7 miles west of Webster. On Interstate 29, several rollover accidents occurred, including vehicles sliding off the road. Some snowfall amounts included 4 inches at Timber Lake, Mobridge, Eureka, Leola, Britton, and Clark, five at Leola, six at Waubay and Summit, and eight at Pollock.