Blizzard in Mccook, South Dakota

A blizzard spread across the area from the west. Snow accumulating 3 to 12 inches was accompanied by 50 to 60 mph winds and very cold temperatures. The blizzard was accompanied by wind chill readings around 70 below zero. Roads and many businesses, schools, and other activities were shut down. The total destruction of at least 3 homes by fire was due in part to the inability of firefighters to travel across the blocked roads. Several accidents occurred and other vehicles slid into ditches or became stranded. One man died of exposure near Bridgewater after his vehicle was stranded. Power outages occurred, one due to a transformer exploding in Gregory County. Some pipes froze and broke where power outages occurred. The strong winds blew the roofs off from two structures.