South Dakotans, buckle up! Winter isn’t done with us just yet. A burst of snow is set to hit areas south of Interstate 90 tonight, making travel tricky before we get a welcome warm-up heading into the weekend.
What’s Coming Tonight?
A winter weather advisory is in effect for areas south of I-90, with snowfall expected to begin this evening and last overnight. Some spots could get up to 6 inches of snow, with gusty winds up to 35 mph creating blowing snow and reduced visibility. That means if you’re planning to be out on the roads, you’ll want to be extra careful.
Right now, temperatures are sitting in the upper 20s to low 30s, but as the evening goes on, moisture moving in from the west will turn into snow. By the time you wake up Friday morning, roads could be slick and icy, making for a rough commute.
What This Means for You
If you have travel plans tonight or early tomorrow, expect delays and dangerous road conditions. The South Dakota Department of Transportation is urging drivers to slow down, keep an emergency kit in their car, and check road conditions before heading out. With strong winds in open areas, there’s a chance for near-whiteout conditions, making driving even more dangerous.
Schools and businesses might also be affected, so check for potential delays or closures in the morning. While main highways like I-90 will likely be plowed regularly, side roads could stay snow-covered and icy for a while.
Big Warm-Up on the Horizon
Here’s the silver lining: this snowstorm won’t stick around for long! By Saturday, temperatures will start climbing, with highs reaching the mid-40s to low 50s in some areas. The sun will make a comeback, and whatever snow is left will begin melting fast.
This kind of rollercoaster weather isn’t unusual for March, but it’s always a bit of a shock. Make sure you’re prepared for the snow tonight, but get ready to swap out your heavy coats for lighter layers by the weekend!
If you’re south of I-90, now’s the time to stock up on essentials, whether that’s groceries, gas, or just an extra warm blanket. Avoid unnecessary travel, keep an eye on weather updates, and give road crews time to do their job.
