STURGIS, S.D. – Winter Storm Diaz continued its assault on western South Dakota today – although some sun has tried to shine through the clouds in Sturgis.
The National Weather Service kept the blizzard warning in effect today for most of western South Dakota. The exception – the southern hills under a winter weather advisory, and the northern black hills under a winter storm warning.
In Sturgis, the day started with a no travel advisory – but that was lifted as crews made progress through the day – hitting the numerous residential areas.
Sturgis Public Works Director Rick Bush says there is a lot of snow and it is creating some big wind rows along the road ways. He warned residents with the wind and continuing snow showers today, it was going to be a long battle.
Schools, government offices and even some businesses remained closed today as well.
I-90 from Sundance out to Rapid City was reopened at noon today. However, the South Dakota Highway Patrol was warning drivers to be cautious. Assessment of conditions and forecasts is ongoing. At this point, the I-90 closure from Rapid City to Chamberlain is expected to remain in place through the overnight. The patrol had responded to numerous accidents statewide since the storm started Monday night.
Some impressive snow totals are also coming in – including 18 inches in Spearfish and between 40-48 inches in the Lead area. Drifts from 1 up to 5 feet deep are also being reported.
