Sioux Falls, South Dakota – Snow-packed stretches could redevelop on I-29 and I-90 before 8 a.m. Thursday as a series of systems tracks across South Dakota, keeping plows active and winter travel impacts in place through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, South Dakota sits in a 50 to 60 percent above-normal precipitation zone through Tuesday. That elevated signal across the northern Plains increases the likelihood of multiple rounds of snow or mixed precipitation as February winds down.
In Sioux Falls, where average highs this time of year sit in the upper 20s, temperatures may swing between brief thaws into the 30s and colder snaps that refreeze melted snow overnight. Rapid City and areas along I-90 could see periodic light to moderate snowfall, particularly during overnight and early morning hours. In central South Dakota, including Pierre along U.S. Highway 83, fluctuating temperatures may create slushy conditions during the day before refreezing after sunset.
While much of the eastern United States trends 15 to 20 degrees above normal, South Dakota remains closer to the colder side of the jet stream. That setup favors snow over rain and supports continued winter road concerns.
Drivers should allow extra travel time during morning commutes, carry emergency supplies in vehicles and monitor SDDOT updates for changing road conditions. The active pattern holds into early next week, and additional advisories remain possible. Winter is not finished with South Dakota as February comes to a close.
