Sioux Falls, South Dakota – A sharp shift to dangerous winter conditions is set to impact much of South Dakota late Thursday through the weekend as powerful winds, falling temperatures, and snow showers combine to create hazardous travel and life-threatening cold exposure.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, one more mild day is expected Thursday before a strong cold front moves through Thursday night. Northwest winds will rapidly increase, with gusts reaching 40 to 60 mph across eastern South Dakota, and potentially nearing 70 mph in parts of central and western portions of the state. Those winds will usher in much colder air by Friday morning.
Snow showers are expected to develop Thursday evening and intensify Friday morning. While snowfall amounts are expected to remain light, generally under an inch, the combination of strong winds and falling snow could sharply reduce visibility at times, especially in open areas west of I-29. Brief near-blizzard conditions are possible in localized bands.
The greater concern arrives behind the front. Wind chills are forecast to plunge into the -10 to -25 degree range Friday night through the weekend, with some locations seeing even colder values during the overnight and early morning hours. At those levels, frostbite can occur in less than 30 minutes on exposed skin.
Travel along major routes including I-29, I-90, and Highway 14 could become hazardous during periods of blowing snow and strong crosswinds. Officials urge residents to secure loose outdoor objects, limit outdoor exposure, dress in layers, and keep emergency supplies in vehicles.
Colder, breezy conditions are expected to persist through the weekend before gradual improvement early next week. Additional advisories or warnings may be issued as the cold and wind peak.
