South Dakota – Frost clings to windshields across Sioux Falls this morning as the sun rises over a sharp 21-degree start. The air feels crisp and still, but a dramatic February thaw is already underway.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, sunshine dominates today with highs surging to 59 degrees. Calm winds shift southwest around 5 mph this afternoon. That 38-degree temperature swing will melt remaining snow piles quickly and leave wet pavement in shaded neighborhoods.
Drivers along I-29 and I-90 should watch for slick patches early, especially where melting refreezes in low spots. Flash freezing becomes a risk this time of year when water lingers after sunset. Plan for changing road conditions even on clear days.
Saturday turns even milder. Highs climb near 60 degrees as clouds decrease. Sunday stays mostly sunny with highs around 61. Washington’s Birthday remains bright and seasonably warm near 61 degrees, extending this unusual February warm stretch.
The pattern shifts by Tuesday. Highs reach 64 degrees with a slight chance of rain by afternoon. By Wednesday, temperatures fall toward 50 degrees with a chance of rain and snow. A light wintry mix is possible if readings hover near freezing. Even minor accumulation could create slushy commutes.
Meteorologists are tracking this broader Plains warm-up through early next week. Temperatures may run 10 to 20 degrees above average before cooler air returns midweek. Signs of early spring are building, but winter is not finished yet.
How does it feel in your neighborhood this morning? Are roads drying out or still slick?
Five Day Outlook for Sioux Falls, South Dakota:
Today: Sunny, high 59.
Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 60.
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 61.
Monday (Washington’s Birthday): Mostly sunny, high 61.
Tuesday: Partly sunny, slight chance of rain, high 64.
