As the area prepares for the coming winter storms, the National Weather Service has issued a three-day warning to residents to prepare to evacuate.
This is because the storm is similar to what the state saw in early January. fell over 13 inches At Sioux Falls Regional Airport, leading to a travel ban advisory within city limits, Interstate highway closures statewide“Be careful to have up to three days of supplies for your family and pets just in case the worst happens,” said Amanda Penning, a meteorologist at the Sioux Falls office. , like much of southeastern South Dakota, will be under a blizzard warning on Wednesday through part of Thursday, according to the Sioux Falls National Weather Service.
The warning, issued around 3 a.m. Tuesday, comes ahead of a severe winter storm that will bring two rounds of snow to the area. The Bureau of Meteorology expects 11 to 16 inches of snow in the Sioux Falls area between Tuesday afternoon and the time the storm leaves the area on Thursday. Gusts are expected to reach speeds of up to 50 mph.
“Travel should be limited to emergencies only,” the warning said. “If you have to travel, take your winter survival kit with you. If you get stuck, stay in your car.”
These major travel concerns are mostly Wednesday through Thursday and possibly Friday. Penning said areas north of Sioux Falls could see more travel impact on Tuesday as total snowfall is projected to increase on the first day of the system.
more:View from New Year’s snowstorm
Traveling due to the storm will be difficult or impossible, the National Weather Service said in a graphic.
“If you don’t need to travel, it’s best to stay home. If you do need to travel, it’s best to leave early. If possible, change your travel plans.” Penning said, “And if you must travel, be sure to tell the other person what time you’re leaving, what time you plan to arrive, and which route you’re taking. I know where to start.”
This article originally appeared in the Sioux Falls Argus Reader. Be prepared to evacuate for up to three days as a major winter storm looms, NWS says