In South Dakota, snowstorms and heavy snow days can make it one of the most beautiful states in the nation, but weather can be unpredictable and make many roads hazardous, especially those in open, rural, curvy, or hilly areas.

Here are key South Dakota roads to be cautious on or avoid altogether during heavy snow:

1. Interstate Highways (I-90 and I-29)
I-90: Runs east-west across the state. Open plains and strong winds can lead to whiteouts and drifting snow, especially in central and western South Dakota.
I-29: Runs north-south in eastern South Dakota. Freezing rain and icy conditions are common, especially in low-lying areas.

2. US Highways
US 14, US 18, US 212: These highways cross long stretches of open prairie, where strong winds can create snowdrifts and reduce visibility.
US 85: Particularly hazardous in the Black Hills region due to steep grades and winding roads.

3. State Highways in the Black Hills
SD 87 (Needles Highway): Narrow, winding, and steep roads can become treacherous with snow and ice.
SD 244 (Mount Rushmore area): Conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations.
Iron Mountain Road (SD 16A): Known for tight switchbacks and tunnels, it's best avoided during snowstorms.

Read: 11 Must-Have Items in Your Car For South Dakota Winters

4. Rice Street: The stretch of Rice Street that runs between Sioux Falls and Brandon is a challenge during snowstorms. It's a windy road with plenty of curves with "Watch for Deer" signs every half mile.

5. Highway 46: Running from Pickstown, SD. to the Iowa border, this drive is beautiful with rolling hills and fields, and grasslands. But catch it on a snowstorm and those hills can get the best of you with tons of drifting snow.

6. U.S. Highway 83: Named one of the most-feared roads for winter driving by Gunther VW Daytona, this highway is wide open, desolate, and rural which leads to massive drifting. And it there seems to be gusty winds every month of the year, but winter gives it a little extra layer of danger.

These roads listed can be impassable during or after heavy snow due to drifting and lack of immediate snow removal. Before heading out, check the weather forecast and if a snowstorm is coming look into this South Dakota DOT Travel Information: Visit SD511.org or call 511 for live road conditions and closures.

Make sure to carry Emergency Supplies: Keep a winter survival kit in your car, including blankets, food, water, and a shovel.

Safe traveling!

Better Fried Food In South Dakota Than Minnesota or Iowa

Gallery Credit: Dave Roberts

KKRC-FM / 97.3 KKRC logo
Get our free mobile app

 

More From KKRC-FM / 97.3 KKRC