South Dakota – Gray skies hang low and the air bites hard as winter tightens its grip across the eastern Plains. Light snow flakes drift at times, barely visible, yet enough to dull pavement and hint at slick travel as cold settles in.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, light snow chances return later today and continue into Thursday, mainly west of the James River Valley and into parts of eastern South Dakota. Accumulations are expected to stay around an inch or less, but even small amounts can create problems when temperatures stay well below freezing.
In and around Sioux Falls, daytime highs struggle to climb out of the teens and low 20s. Calm winds early give way to light northerly flow, keeping wind chills biting. Drivers along I-29, I-90, and area county roads should expect reduced traction during snow bursts, especially near sunrise and after sunset when flash freezing becomes more likely.
The more dangerous cold arrives by Friday and Saturday. Wind chills are expected to plunge as low as 20 degrees below zero during the morning hours, creating a serious risk for frostbite in minutes. Outdoor exposure should be limited, pets brought inside, and vehicles winterized before the cold peaks. Meteorologists are also tracking additional light snow potential into the weekend, which could further complicate travel.
By Sunday, temperatures begin a modest rebound, though winter remains firmly in control. Looking ahead, NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook suggests drier conditions next week across much of the central U.S., even as temperature contrasts sharpen nationwide with colder air lingering north and warmer air surging across the Southeast.
Plan extra time if traveling late this week, and dress for extreme cold. How slick did the roads feel in your area today?
Five Day Outlook for Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Today: Partly sunny, high near 21°F
- Thursday: Slight snow chance, high near 16°F
- Friday: Sunny but very cold, high near 10°F
- Saturday: Light snow possible, high near 19°F
- Sunday: Chance of snow early, high near 33°F
