Sioux Falls, South Dakota – Slick highways and powerful wind gusts could disrupt travel across South Dakota beginning Thursday, Feb. 26, as a wetter late-winter pattern increases the risk for freezing rain and high winds through Monday, March 2.
According to NOAA’s 6- to 10-day outlook issued Friday, above-normal precipitation is favored across portions of the Northern Plains during the Thursday-to-Monday stretch, with temperatures trending near seasonal averages. That setup raises the chance for precipitation to fall as a mix of rain and freezing rain when surface readings hover near 32 degrees.
Statewide impacts may focus along I-29 from Sioux Falls north toward Brookings and along I-90 from Mitchell through Chamberlain to Rapid City. Elevated ramps and Missouri River crossings could ice first if light accumulation develops overnight. In Sioux Falls, overpasses along I-229 and bridges spanning the Big Sioux River are particularly vulnerable during early morning hours.
Wind will also be a major factor across open prairie. Gusts between 50 and 60 mph are possible late in the period, especially Sunday into Monday, creating hazardous crosswinds for high-profile vehicles along I-90 and US-83. Blowing precipitation could reduce visibility in rural areas.
Strong winds combined with saturated ground may down tree limbs and cause scattered power outages. Residents should secure outdoor equipment, charge essential devices and allow extra travel time during peak icing windows. The unsettled pattern continues through March 2, and additional advisories may be issued statewide.
