Updated 9:35pm 1/22/18
South Dakota officials have reopened Interstate 29 between the Tea Exit and the Iowa border but have also issued a travel caution.
Drivers are cautioned that the heavy snow from today’s blizzard has been compacted onto the roadway creating extremely slippery conditions on I-29 and highways in the southeastern part of the state.
Strong winds are also expected to continue causing drifting and limited visibility. Motorists are asked to postpone travel plans until Tuesday if possible.
If you must travel, officials advise having an emergency winter survival kit including a charged cell phone.
Motorists are also advised to check road condition sites for Nebraska, Iowa and Minnesota before heading those directions.
The most up-to-date information on road conditions is available by dialing 511 or visiting www.safetravelusa.com/sd.
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Officials with the South Dakota Departments of Transportation and Public Safety have closed the north and southbound lanes of Interstate 29 from North Sioux City to the Tea Exit 73 just south of the Sioux Falls city limits.
Numerous jackknifed and stuck vehicles, heavy snow and strong winds are making travel through the corridor impossible.
Conditions south of Sioux Falls have deteriorated rapidly and there is no place for motorists to get off the Interstate to seek shelter.
The Sam’s Club parking lot in Sioux City off the Singing Hills I-29 exit may be used by truckers who cannot go north.
The Long Lines Family Rec Center and Downtown Perkins are also open for stranded truckers to park at Monday night.
While I-29 south of Sioux City is open, authorities do not advise travel between Sioux City to south of Onawa because of blizzard conditions.
Plymouth County Sheriff Mike Van Otterloo is also not advising any travel in the county during the blizzard warning.
He says deputies will not risk their safety for non-emergency calls.
Get the most up-to-date information on road conditions at www.safetravelusa.com/sd or by dialing 5-1-1 before heading out.
