Blizzard Conditions Disrupt Life in Aberdeen, South Dakota

Strong winds and heavy snow force school and business closures across the region.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A powerful winter storm has brought blizzard conditions to parts of northern and northeastern South Dakota, including the city of Aberdeen. High winds of up to 60 mph and heavy snowfall have led to widespread school and business closures, leaving many residents hunkered down at home.

Why it matters

Blizzards can have a significant impact on communities, disrupting daily life, transportation, and economic activity. This storm highlights the challenges that extreme winter weather can pose for residents, especially those without the ability to stay home from work or school.

The details

The blizzard warning issued for Aberdeen, Mobridge, and Redfield has resulted in the cancellation of classes at Northern State University and other local schools. Residents have reported poor visibility and dangerous driving conditions, with snow blowing around and creating a 'white screen' outside their windows.

  • The blizzard warning was issued this morning (February 19, 2026).
  • The storm is expected to continue throughout the day, with high winds and heavy snow persisting.

The players

Paden Johnson

A student at Northern State University who described the poor visibility and blowing snow outside his window.

Erich Schaffhauser

An Aberdeen resident and teacher who was able to stay home with his family due to the school closures.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I look outside right now, I could barely even see out of our window is there's a bunch of snow just blowing around, and it looks like it's a white screen.”

— Paden Johnson, Northern State student (KELOLAND)

“Well, it doesn't take too long to get used to warmer weather, even if it's in February, so I was definitely getting used to the nicer weather. And I don't know if I was missing out on something and not paying attention enough, but I was definitely caught off guard when I got the message this morning that, I'm a teacher, we didn't have to go to work.”

— Erich Schaffhauser, Aberdeen resident and teacher (KELOLAND)

What’s next

The blizzard is expected to continue throughout the day, with the National Weather Service monitoring the situation and providing updates on road conditions and school/business closures.

The takeaway

This blizzard serves as a reminder of the harsh winter weather that can impact communities in South Dakota, underscoring the importance of preparedness and the challenges faced by those without the ability to stay home during such extreme conditions.