RAPID CITY, S.D. – It may be the hottest October 3 on record today, however a dozen years ago, the region was hit by one of the most impactful blizzards in the state’s history.
Each year on the anniversary of the historic storm, often referred to as Winter Storm Atlas, officials in several Black Hills area cities share details and helpful hints for the upcoming winter season.
The details include an overview of each city’s snow removal policies, helpful hints on getting prepared for the winter season ahead, and winter driving tips. Rick Bush is the Public Works Director in Sturgis.
The Thursday-Saturday storm in 2013 resulted in considerable damage with downed power lines and trees, which had not yet dropped their leaves and broke under the weight of the heavy snows. There were thousands of livestock deaths and property damage through the region as well.
Bush says he remembers the massive mounds of trees that had to be hauled out.
Power outages, stalled and stuck vehicles, stranded residents and workers, and area communities brought to a virtual standstill, remain vivid memories of a storm that paralyzed the region 12 years ago.