Mesoscale Discussion 0242
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
0949 AM CDT Sun Mar 15 2026
Areas affected...portions of South Dakota...southern Minnesota...far
northeast Nebraska...and northwest Iowa
Concerning...Blizzard
Valid 151449Z - 152045Z
SUMMARY...Low-level wind fields are expected to intensify through
much of the morning over the northern Plains and upper Midwest. The
strong winds, along with ongoing snowfall, will likely support the
development and expansion of blizzard conditions through the day.
DISCUSSION...Morning surface and radar analysis showed a deep
surface cyclone (990 mb) quickly intensifying as it moves
northeastward across portions of northern MO. Supported by intense
height falls and ascent from a deep upper trough, very strong
northerly low-level winds were observed over much of the Great
Plains and upper Midwest behind the surface cyclone and a trailing
cold front.
Light snowfall remains ongoing over parts of eastern SD, NE and
western MN. This band of snow, likely associated with mid-level
ascent/deformation beneath the upper trough will gradually expand in
coverage to the east/southeast into parts of IA. Despite limited
snowfall rates, very strong boundary-layer winds (50-60 kt below 1
km) are being observed with a northerly low-level jet max. These
strong surface gusts and antecedent snow depth should be sufficient
to support substantial blowing snow. Low visibilities have begun to
develop over parts of SD, and widespread visibility reductions to
1/2 - 1/4 mile are forecast to support a hybrid combination of
ground blizzard and blowing snow conditions this morning and through
much of today.
Later today into this afternoon, the strong winds and blowing snow
should expand across parts of IA. It may take several hours for
sufficient snowfall and depth to accumulate and support lower
visibilities. However, given the expected increase in snowfall and
surface gusts upwards of 60 mph, significant visibility reductions
and travel impacts are expected later today into tonight.
..Lyons.. 03/15/2026
...Please see www.spc.noaa.gov for graphic product...
ATTN...WFO...ARX...MPX...DMX...FGF...FSD...OAX...ABR...UNR...
LAT...LON 41309484 41419573 42089689 42619777 43319902 43810029
44530079 45580058 45799931 45719479 45259333 44529286
43319304 42639314 42019354 41529387 41309484
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