A significant winter storm is poised to impact South Dakota midweek, bringing a hazardous mix of freezing drizzle, snow, and cold temperatures. Residents should be ready for slippery roads and potential travel disruptions.
Sioux Falls: Freezing Drizzle and Breezy Conditions
Currently, Sioux Falls is experiencing mostly sunny skies with a temperature of 1°F (-17°C). Today will be mostly cloudy with a high of 20°F (-7°C) and a low of 13°F (-11°C). On Wednesday, February 5, expect low clouds with a bit of freezing drizzle, becoming breezy in the afternoon. The high will be around 29°F (-2°C), with a low of 13°F (-10°C). These conditions could make roads slick, especially during the morning commute.
Rapid City: Cloudy and Cold with Afternoon Sun
In Rapid City, it’s currently cloudy at 3°F (-16°C). Today will remain cloudy and cold, with a high of 19°F (-7°C) and a low of 10°F (-12°C). Wednesday will bring not as cold temperatures, starting with low clouds followed by some sun in the afternoon. The high is expected to reach 31°F (-1°C), with a low of 13°F (-10°C). While conditions may improve later in the day, caution is advised during the morning hours.
Aberdeen: Afternoon Freezing Drizzle
Aberdeen is currently cloudy with a temperature of -1°F (-18°C). Today’s forecast is mostly cloudy and cold, with a high of 10°F (-12°C) and a low of 5°F (-15°C). On Wednesday, anticipate a bit of freezing drizzle in the afternoon; otherwise, it will be cloudy and not as cold. The high will be near 25°F (-4°C), with a low of 3°F (-16°C). Afternoon travel may become hazardous due to icy conditions.
Brookings: Breezy with Freezing Drizzle
Currently, Brookings is mostly cloudy at -3°F (-19°C). Today will be mostly cloudy and cold, with a high of 13°F (-11°C) and a low of 7°F (-14°C). Wednesday’s forecast includes a bit of freezing drizzle, with cloudy skies and not as cold temperatures, becoming breezy in the afternoon. Expect a high of 26°F (-3°C) and a low of 9°F (-13°C). The combination of freezing drizzle and wind could lead to reduced visibility and slippery roads.
Watertown: Freezing Drizzle and Cloudy Skies
In Watertown, it’s currently cloudy at -3°F (-19°C). Today’s weather will be mostly cloudy and cold, with a high of 9°F (-13°C) and a low of 5°F (-15°C). On Wednesday, expect a bit of freezing drizzle in the afternoon; otherwise, it will be cloudy and not as cold. The high will be around 25°F (-4°C), with a low of 6°F (-14°C). Afternoon conditions may become treacherous due to ice formation.
Safety Recommendations:
- Limit Travel: If possible, avoid driving during periods of freezing drizzle and snow to reduce the risk of accidents.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check local weather updates for the latest information.
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is equipped with emergency supplies, including blankets, a shovel, and a flashlight.
- Dress Warmly: Wear appropriate clothing to protect against the cold and potential frostbite.
Stay safe, South Dakota!