Chamberlain, SD – Drivers across central and southeast South Dakota are facing hazardous conditions tonight as mixed winter weather continues to move through the region, bringing snow, ice, and gusty winds through Saturday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until noon Saturday for Gregory, Brule, Aurora, Jerauld, Charles Mix, Douglas, and Bon Homme counties. Forecasters report an additional 3 to 5 inches of snow is likely overnight, along with a light glaze of ice that could make roads extremely slick.
Wind gusts reaching 35 mph may further reduce visibility, especially in open areas and along rural highways. The combination of accumulating snow and patchy ice is expected to impact the Friday evening commute, with conditions declining rapidly after sunset.
Residents in communities such as Chamberlain, Platte, Armour, Wagner, Tyndall, and Wessington Springs may wake up to snow-covered and icy roads Saturday morning. Travel delays are possible, and drivers are advised to slow down and allow extra braking distance on untreated surfaces.
Forecasters emphasize that even small amounts of ice can create treacherous conditions, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and county roads. Crews are working to treat major corridors, but blowing snow may continue to reduce visibility in open terrain.
The advisory covers a broad portion of central and south-central South Dakota, where temperatures are expected to remain near or below freezing overnight, allowing precipitation to stick quickly.
Motorists planning early Saturday trips should monitor local conditions and check updates through South Dakota’s 511 travel information service before heading out.
