South Dakota — A sharp, biting chill clings to the air this morning, with frost coating lawns and windshields across Sioux Falls and surrounding communities.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures dropped to around 32 degrees across Sioux Falls, Brookings, Yankton, and Sioux City early this morning, producing widespread frost through 8 a.m.
This is part of a broader cold snap settling over the northern Plains, where clear skies and light winds allow temperatures to fall quickly before sunrise.
The most immediate impact window runs through 8 a.m., when untreated bridges, rural roads, and low-lying areas may develop slick spots from light frost or thin ice. Along I-29 and I-90, early commuters could encounter reduced tire grip, especially near shaded overpasses and river-adjacent stretches where cold air pools.
Frost also poses a direct risk to gardens and agriculture. Sensitive plants in backyards and rural fields across southeast South Dakota and northwest Iowa may suffer damage if left uncovered.
Conditions improve quickly by late morning as sunshine returns and temperatures rise into the mid-50s. However, another drop into the low to mid-30s is expected late tonight into early Saturday, bringing a second round of frost, particularly in sheltered and low-lying areas.
Residents should cover plants again tonight and use caution during early morning travel when surfaces are coldest.
Looking ahead, a gradual warming trend builds through the weekend into early next week, with highs pushing toward the upper 60s and near 70 by Sunday and Monday. Longer-range signals point to above-normal temperatures developing into mid-May.
Frost impacts are most significant through early morning hours, so protect vegetation now and watch for slick patches on roads before temperatures rebound.
