South Dakota – Blowing snow skims across open fields and highway shoulders this morning, briefly erasing lane lines as Arctic air tightens its grip. Sioux Falls wakes to temperatures near 5 degrees, with wind chills plunging into the −10 to −20 degree range early Monday.
According to the National Weather Service, areas of blowing and drifting snow are reducing visibility across southeastern South Dakota, including the Sioux Falls metro. Gusty northwest winds combine with lingering snowpack to create slick spots and sudden whiteouts, especially on I-29 and I-90 during the morning commute.
Highs today struggle to reach 16 degrees, even with sunshine breaking through. Winds ease slightly by afternoon, but cold remains biting. Drivers should allow extra space and watch for reduced visibility on open stretches outside the city. Frostbite can occur quickly on exposed skin this morning.
Tonight turns calmer but stays brutally cold, with lows near 11 degrees. Tuesday offers a modest break, as clouds thin and highs rebound to the mid 30s. To be fair, that will feel noticeably better, though melting snow may refreeze after sunset.
Midweek brings steadier conditions. Wednesday tops out near 30 degrees, followed by another cold night near 7 degrees. Attention then shifts to New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day 2026. Thursday stays partly sunny but cold, with highs near 20 degrees, keeping winter firmly in control for holiday plans.
No major storms are expected later this week, but the ongoing cold can still cause problems. Melted snow during daytime hours may flash-freeze at night, leaving sidewalks and parking lots slick.
Bundle up, limit time outdoors this morning, and plan extra travel time today. How cold did it feel where you were standing at sunrise?
Five Day Outlook for Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Monday: Blowing snow early, sunny later, high near 16
Monday Night: Partly cloudy, low near 11
Tuesday: Decreasing clouds, high near 35
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 30
Thursday (New Year’s Day): Partly sunny, high near 20
