Aberdeen, South Dakota, is digging out after a blizzard swept through the region Wednesday, February 18, 2026, leaving behind drifts of snow reaching thigh-high in some areas. The storm brought strong winds and heavy snowfall, creating hazardous conditions and prompting closures across the city and Brown County. Residents are now facing a multi-day effort to clear streets and restore normalcy as plowing operations begin and schools resume with delays. The blizzard conditions impacted travel, schools, and essential services, highlighting the challenges of winter weather in the Northern Plains.
The National Weather Service reported that blizzard conditions were expected to continue until approximately 3 p.m. On Wednesday, with anticipated snowfall accumulation of 2 to 4 inches. KELOLAND News updated coverage on February 18, 2026, detailing the impact on Aberdeen residents.
Plowing Operations Underway, Travel Still Hazardous
The city of Aberdeen initiated plowing operations early Thursday morning, February 19, focusing first on emergency routes beginning at 6 a.m. According to a statement from the city, plowing of downtown parking lots, north-south streets in Zone 2, and all of Zone 3 commenced at 7 a.m. Zone 3 generally encompasses the streets and avenues on the outskirts of town. Plowing of east-west avenues in Zone 2 is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m., and Zone 1, the downtown commercial area, will be addressed starting at 10 p.m. Thursday.
Residents are warned that vehicles parked on streets within a zone during plowing operations are subject to ticketing, and towing. The city also reminds residents that it is illegal to shovel, blow, blade, or push snow into city streets at any time, with limited exceptions in Zone 1. These measures are intended to facilitate efficient snow removal and maintain safe roadways.
School Closures and Delays
Aberdeen Public Schools will operate on a two-hour delay on Thursday, February 19, as announced by Superintendent Becky Guffin. Aberdeen Insider reported on the school delays and closures. In addition to Aberdeen Public Schools, Aberdeen Catholic, Aberdeen Christian, and Trinity Lutheran schools are all closed. Northern State University has also closed its offices and canceled classes.
Service Disruptions and Modified Schedules
The impact of the blizzard extended beyond schools, causing widespread disruptions to services. Brown County offices are closed, and the Brown County Landfill is also temporarily shut down. Skating and lessons at the Odde Ice Center/Holumn Expo Building have been canceled. City garbage and recycling schedules have been modified to accommodate the conditions.
Wednesday’s garbage pickup has been rescheduled for Thursday, with residents asked to have their bins out by 7 a.m. Dependable Sanitation will not collect recycling on Wednesday; customers scheduled for Wednesday pickup should place their recycling out for collection next week.
Impact on Transportation and Visibility
Visibility remains limited throughout Aberdeen, prompting authorities to urge residents to stay home if possible. The challenging conditions have made travel particularly hazardous, and officials are advising against unnecessary trips. The combination of strong winds and heavy snowfall created near-whiteout conditions in some areas, significantly reducing visibility for drivers.
The Aberdeen Insider reported that a snow alert was issued after the blizzard conditions on Wednesday, February 18. Google News also covered the story, highlighting the plowing operations and school delays.
The situation underscores the importance of preparedness during winter storms and the potential for significant disruptions to daily life. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather updates and heed the advice of local authorities.
The city continues to assess the situation and will provide further updates as plowing operations progress and conditions improve. Residents can expect continued efforts to clear roadways and restore services in the coming days. The next scheduled update from the city regarding plowing progress is expected Friday morning, February 20.
Have your say: What are your experiences with the blizzard in Aberdeen? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below, and please share this article with your friends and neighbors.
