Sioux Falls, South Dakota – Drivers along Highway 14 from Des Smet to Marshall are facing sudden whiteout conditions this morning as strong winds whip light snow across eastern South Dakota.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect along the Highway 14 corridor through early afternoon. While snowfall totals are expected to stay at an inch or less, gusty winds are reducing visibility sharply at times, creating brief but dangerous whiteouts.
The advisory stretches across portions of Kingsbury, Brookings, Deuel, and nearby counties, impacting travel between communities such as Watertown, Brookings, and Marshall. Open stretches of Highway 14 are especially vulnerable to blowing snow, where visibility can drop quickly with little warning. Drivers may encounter sudden near-zero visibility, particularly in rural areas with minimal tree cover.
Officials urge motorists to slow down, use headlights, and increase following distance. If visibility drops suddenly, drivers should avoid abrupt braking and stay in their lane until conditions improve. South Dakota DOT crews continue monitoring conditions, but rapidly shifting winds can redeposit snow on cleared roadways.
Whiteout risks are expected to ease later this afternoon as winds gradually diminish. Additional advisories could be issued if visibility worsens or conditions expand.
