While snowfall amounts across Sioux Falls and eastern South Dakota are expected to remain relatively light today, hazardous travel conditions are still likely due to very strong winds, rapidly changing visibility, and sharply falling temperatures.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, scattered snow showers will move southeast across the region beginning early Thursday morning and continuing through the afternoon. Snowfall totals are expected to remain under one inch, but this will not tell the full story of the impacts. Wind gusts between 50 and 70 mph will accompany the snow, leading to blowing snow and sudden drops in visibility, at times to one-half mile or less. These rapid visibility changes may significantly affect the morning and midday commute.
In addition to blowing snow, temperatures will fall quickly into the teens, creating a heightened risk of a flash freeze. Wet road surfaces from earlier precipitation may freeze rapidly, resulting in slick and icy roads, even where snowfall accumulation is minimal. Although existing snowpack is not expected to drift extensively, newly fallen snow will blow easily, further reducing visibility and creating localized hazardous driving conditions.
Motorists are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and remain alert for rapidly changing conditions. Even brief snow showers may cause sudden whiteout conditions, especially in open and rural areas. Travelers should be prepared for poor visibility, slick pavement, and difficult driving, particularly on east-west roadways exposed to strong crosswinds.
While this is not expected to be a major snow event, the combination of strong winds, light snow, and rapidly falling temperatures makes today’s weather especially dangerous. Stay weather-aware, monitor local updates, and allow extra time if travel is necessary.
