Taste of winter is forecast for region

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Missing the snow, ice and cold weather that has always accompanied a South Dakota winter?

Weary of the warmer than normal, extremely dry conditions the area has witnessed in the “winter” of 2011-2012?

Well, look outside this morning and exult.

A shot of winter weather is in store for much of the region today as a storm system moves through South Dakota and passes across the Mitchell area.

Snow and sleet was forecast to start overnight Sunday and continue until around 3 p.m. today when it is expected to switch to a rain and snow mix.

Total accumulation of snow and sleet is expected to be 2 to 4 inches, although melting could occur throughout the day as temperatures begin to warm.

According to National Weather Service meteorologist Chris Jansen, the storm is a low pressure system traveling east from the Rocky Mountains that will move across much of South Dakota and bring a mixed bag of precipitation.

“It is more than likely going to be snow and sleet turning to rain as temperatures warm as the day moves on throughout much of the area,” Jansen said.

If it seems like it’s been a while since we experienced winter-like conditions, you’re right. It’s been a month since measureable snow fell in one day, according to NWS records.

Mitchell last saw snow accumulation of more than 1 inch on Jan. 20, when it received 4.2 inches.

The high temperature in Mitchell today is forecast to be 37 degrees.

Temperatures are expected to warm to a high of 41 Tuesday with a chance of freezing rain during the night.

If today isn’t enough for you, another blast of winter will follow in two days.

A chance of snow is forecast for Wednesday and continuing into Thursday.

Tags: winter weather, national weather service, news, snow, sleet, winter, ice, cold