Sioux Falls, South Dakota — A fast-moving winter system is bringing snow and powerful winds to the Sioux Falls area today, creating the risk for brief whiteout conditions and hazardous travel.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, quick-hitting snow is expected through the morning hours, with accumulations up to 1 inch mainly along and north of Interstate 90. While snowfall totals will be limited, the primary concern is strong northwest winds developing late this morning into the afternoon.
Wind gusts between 40 and 60 mph are forecast, which may lead to blowing and drifting snow. Forecasters warn that visibility could drop rapidly to near zero at times, especially in open areas and during the strongest gusts.
A Wind Advisory remains in effect for much of the region through 6 p.m. Brief near-whiteout conditions are most likely along and north of I-90, including portions of the Sioux Falls metro and surrounding rural areas.
Major routes such as Interstate 90, Interstate 29, and nearby state highways could see sudden reductions in visibility, slick spots, and difficult driving conditions. High-profile vehicles may be especially vulnerable to strong crosswinds, particularly on east-west roadways.
The National Weather Service urges drivers to slow down, use headlights, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. If visibility drops suddenly, motorists are advised to reduce speed gradually and avoid abrupt maneuvers.
Looking ahead, an influx of colder air behind this system is expected to bring dangerous wind chills over the weekend, with values potentially falling between minus 30 and minus 40 degrees.
For commuters, school traffic, and daytime travelers, the most hazardous conditions are expected late this morning through early afternoon, when snow and peak wind gusts are most likely to overlap across the Sioux Falls area.
