I-29 closes from Sioux Falls to North Dakota; I-90 closure extended to Minnesota

UPDATED 9:30 p.m. Central, 12/22/22

Interstate 29 northbound and southbound closed from Sioux Falls (at the I-29/I-90 interchange) to the North Dakota state line at 6 p.m. Central on Thursday, according to the state Department of Transportation. 

Meanwhile, Interstate 90 remained closed from Rapid City to Sioux Falls, and the I-90 closure was extended to the Minnesota border at 7 p.m. Central on Thursday.

Due to the sustained strong winds causing near zero visibility and drifting snow, state officials say both I-29 and I-90 will remained closed through the night and into Friday. Officials will continually assess conditions to determine when I-90 and I-29 can be reopened safely.

Secondary state highways

In addition to the I-90 and I-29 closure, motorists are reminded that many no-travel advisories and impassable conditions are in place on state highways throughout the state.

Many secondary highways are currently listed as impassable due to high winds, drifting and blowing snow, and low visibility associated with the current winter storm system. Motorists should not use secondary roads to avoid interstate closures.

When listed as impassable, travel on the road segment is physically impossible due to widespread deep snow, drifts or stranded vehicles. Clearing these secondary roads is expected to be difficult as winds and additional snow are preventing the ability to safely and effectively plow or blow the drifted snow, especially with the added problem of stranded vehicles.

Motorists are asked to avoid travel due to the extremely serious weather conditions and rapidly deteriorating roads. Significantly reduced visibilities and blizzard-like conditions, along with extreme wind chills, make travel very dangerous.

For the latest on road and weather conditions, visit https://sd511.org or dial 511.