National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Heavy Snow in the Central/Southern Rockies; Below Average Temperatures in the Central and Eastern US

Moderate to heavy snowfall is expected in the central/southern Rockies and adjacent High Plains today. Lake-enhanced snowfall is expected downwind of the Great Lakes today. Showers and thunderstorms will be possible this evening into tonight across the western Gulf Coast states. Temperatures across much of the central and eastern CONUS will remain below average and chilly to end the week. Read More >

 

20 years ago (April 4-7, 1997) North Dakota was hit with a Major Blizzard, bringing much of the state to a complete halt. Heavy snowfall (as much as 2 feet in some areas), and winds to 65 MPH, resulted in widespread impacts. This included 100,000 head of cattle killed (10% of the state herd), widespread power outages, and stranded numerous motorists. Damages totaled just under 45 million dollars. The additional snow at Bismarck (17.5 inches), brought the season snowfall total to 101.4 inches. This set an all-time seasonal snowfall record for Bismarck, which still stands today.