This Day in Weather History: December 25-26, 2016 Christmas Blizzard

A strong low-pressure system brought heavy snow and very gusty winds to northeastern Wyoming and western South Dakota Christmas Day of 2016. Before the snow, some areas experienced freezing rain and sleet, creating a layer of icing. Generally, 4 to 12 inches of snow fell across the forecast area, with the highest amounts across northwestern SD, northeastern WY, and the Black Hills. Strong winds up to 72 mph created blowing snow, resulting in blizzard conditions, even after the snow stopped falling. Many places had drifts several feet high. Interstate 90 was closed for a time west of Gillette.

Additional Details: December 25-26, 2016