What Every South Dakotan Should Know About Winter Weather Alerts

Summer in Sioux Falls is something special. We get a nice Goldilocks summer, not too hot or too humid. Sure, we can hit the 90s, but not for long. And compared to our friends just about 100 miles south in Omaha, our humidity is very nice.

The flipside to those mild summers is our super cold and snowy winters. It’s gonna happen; we may get a nice fall, but don’t be fooled, the cold is coming.

Get our free mobile app

Making it through a South Dakota winter means paying attention to the weather. You gotta keep an eye on the forecast each day, and be aware of any watches, warnings, or advisories.

If you're new to the South Dakota winter, or just need a refresher, here's what the various winter advisories issued by the National Weather Service mean.

RELATED: Winter’s Coming: How to Prepare Your Home in South Dakota

What a Winter Weather Advisory Really Means

When it looks like we could see some snow action, the National Weather Service may issue a Winter Weather Advisory. This means that it's time to keep a close eye on the weather. Snow and blowing snow are possible, and travel may become difficult

The National Weather Service says, "Winter Weather Advisories are issued when snow, blowing snow, ice, sleet, or a combination of these wintry elements is expected but conditions should not be hazardous enough to meet warning criteria.  Be prepared for winter driving conditions and possible travel difficulties."

The Difference Between a Watch and a Warning

Just like with severe thunderstorm watches and warnings in the summer, the winter versions function the same.

A 'Watch' always means the conditions are right for the development of the weather event. A 'Warning' means that it's happening.

The National Weather Service says, "Winter Storm Warnings are issued for a significant winter weather event including snow, ice, sleet or blowing snow or a combination of these hazards. Travel will become difficult or impossible in some situations. Delay your travel plans until conditions improve."

What Makes a Blizzard Warning Different

Did you know that a 'blizzard' is a special kind of winter storm? What makes a winter storm a blizzard is wind. Even an inch of snow, when combined with strong winds, can be called a blizzard. The wind and snow make it hard to impossible to see anything. If a Blizzard warning is issued, that's your cue to stay where you are.

The National Weather Service says, "Blizzard Warnings are issued for frequent gusts greater than or equal to 35 mph accompanied by falling and/or blowing snow, frequently reducing visibility to less than 1/4 mile for three hours or more."

Understanding Cold Weather Alerts in South Dakota

Another type of advisory that may be issued deals with the cold. They are called Extreme Cold Watches and Warnings and Cold Weather Advisories.

All of these are used when the temperature and wind chill will be very cold for a prolonged period of time.

The National Weather Service says a Cold Weather Advisory "...is issued for dangerously cold conditions that are not expected to reach warning criteria. Be sure you and your loved ones dress appropriately and cover exposed skin when venturing outdoors."

An Extreme Cold Watch means that we need to be ready; the temps could drop well below zero, and the wind will be blowing. An Extreme Cold Warning means that it is happening.

The National Weather Service says, "An Extreme Cold Warning is issued when extremely dangerous cold conditions or wind chill values are expected or occurring. If you are in an area with an Extreme Cold Warning, avoid going outside. If you have to go outside, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and make sure at least one other person knows your whereabouts. Update them when you arrive safely at your destination."

Winter in South Dakota isn't as bad as winter in Alaska, but it can still get pretty nasty. Some warm clothes, a good coat, and being aware of the weather will help you survive winter like a local.