South Dakota, get ready for an absolutely brutal few days. A powerful Arctic front is sweeping through the state, and temperatures are set to plummet to dangerous levels. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning through Wednesday noon, with wind chills expected to reach a staggering -45°F in some areas. This isn’t just another cold spell—this kind of cold can be deadly if you’re not prepared.
What’s Going On?
An intense Arctic air mass is settling in, causing temperatures to drop rapidly overnight. Add in gusty winds up to 25 mph, and it’s going to feel even colder than what the thermometer reads. Wind chills this low can cause frostbite in less than 10 minutes!
This extreme cold will stick around through midweek, making it dangerous to be outside for even short periods. The best thing you can do? Stay warm, stay indoors, and take precautions.
Who’s Feeling It the Worst?
South Dakota is in the deep freeze, but some areas will be hit harder than others:
- Sioux Falls: Brace yourself! Wind chills could drop to a bitter -40°F by early Tuesday morning. If you must go out, bundle up and limit your exposure.
- Rapid City: Along with bone-chilling temperatures, there’s a chance of snow flurries making travel even more difficult.
- Aberdeen: If you’re here, you’re in one of the coldest spots—wind chills could reach an unbearable -50°F by Wednesday morning.
How to Stay Safe in This Deep Freeze
This isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous. Here’s what you need to do to protect yourself and your loved ones:
- Stay Indoors as Much as Possible – Seriously, if you don’t need to be outside, don’t go. Frostbite can happen in as little as 10 minutes.
- Layer Up! – If you have to step outside, wear thermal clothing, insulated gloves, a thick hat, a face mask, and waterproof boots. Make sure no skin is exposed.
- Keep Your Home Warm – Check your heating system, block drafts, and have extra blankets and supplies in case of a power outage.
- Protect Your Pipes – Keep a slow drip running from your faucets and open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate to avoid frozen pipes.
- Look Out for Others – Check in on elderly neighbors, young children, and pets. They’re the most vulnerable in extreme cold.
Travel Warning: Stay Off the Roads If You Can
Driving in these conditions is risky. Ice-covered roads, vehicle breakdowns, and the extreme cold can turn a quick trip into a dangerous situation. If you must travel:
- Keep an emergency kit in your car with blankets, food, water, and a flashlight.
- Make sure your gas tank is at least half full to prevent fuel from freezing.
- Tell someone your plans in case you get stranded.
Weather conditions can change fast. Keep up with local news, weather alerts, and emergency updates so you’re always in the know.
