Winter weather conditions impact post-Thanksgiving travel in South Dakota

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – Sunday was a First Alert Weather Day. That’s in part because of the cold temperatures across the region and a snow system that moved across the Dakota News Now viewing area.

The precipitation caused some issues for drivers. With more cars on the road from post-Thanksgiving travel, there’s a greater chance of some accidents. That’s just playing the odds. On top of that was this most recent winter weather system that hit the Dakotas on one of the busiest travel days of the year.

There wasn’t much snow accumulation predicted, but like on Wednesday, it doesn’t take much to cause problems on slick roadways.

Earlier in the day, the South Dakota Department of Transportation reported scattered ice and slippery roads in areas around Mobridge, Pierre and Wagner. It would get a little bit worse surrounding Mobridge over time with scattered snow partially covering roads. As the precipitation moved east, Aberdeen and northeastern South Dakota looked like a snow globe.

Drivers in Huron, Mitchell and eventually Brookings and Sioux Falls saw similar conditions sweep in late with scattered snow or slush on roads.

The SD DOT also took to social media earlier in the day with some key winter driving reminders going into December.

“If you do have winter driving conditions we want you to slow down, don’t use cruise and give our plows plenty of room,” explained SD DOT Director of Operations Craig Smith.

Conditions can rapidly change, so being in the know is the best way to stay safe behind the wheel.

“Be prepared and plan your routes,” Smith said. “SD 511 is the best source of information. We put a lot of effort to keep that information up to date and accurate.”

Thankfully, no accident reports have been made at the hour this article was published.

As always, stick with Dakota News Now for updates on air and online on winter weather conditions.

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