How to check South Dakota road conditions, see cameras as winter storms hit

Megan Bridgeman, Sioux Falls Argus Leader
·2 min read

As winter weather moves in to South Dakota, keeping an eye on traffic conditions before you travel can help keep you safe.

Here's how you can keep up to date on weather forecasts, road conditions and even see live cameras from the South Dakota Department of Transportation.

Live updates:Blizzard warning issued for southeastern South Dakota

How to check South Dakota 511 road conditions, map before you travel

South Dakota DOT hosts a 511 road conditions map which includes National Weather Service alerts, road closures, incidents, obstructions, construction and more.

There is also a filter to see the 24 hours threat forecast, which you can click on a segment and see what is forecast for that roadway so you can be prepared.

You can also call 511 or 1-866-697-3511 if you're not getting 511, according to the 511 website, or download the applications on your mobile phone.

More:'Travel will be difficult to impossible,' NWS says as major winter storm looms

See South Dakota DOT road cameras

Using the South Dakota DOT map, you can also filter through cameras along the roadways, which can cycle through a variety of views. Some cameras even can give you a road surface view.

More:What to do if your car won't start in the cold

How to drive in winter weather

The South Dakota Department of Public Safety recommends these safety tips for anyone planning to travel during winter weather:

  • Check the weather forecast before heading out.

  • Postpone your trip if inclement weather is happening or expected

  • Increase the distance between your car and the vehicle you're following

  • Reduce your speed as the weather requires

  • Keep your gas tank filled

  • Avoid driving alone, but if you have to make sure other people know of your planned trip and arrival times

  • Carry a winter survival kit in your car with things like a flashlight, non-perishable foods, matches, tire chains and more.

Extreme cold: Why is my house cracking and popping in freezing weather?

Be aware of the winter weather forecast

You can check for winter weather and forecasts with the embed below along with checking the national weather service, your local TV station or weather applications.

See the full winter forecast map here.

Track storm damage reports in South Dakota

See the full storm damage map and reports here.

Megan Bridgeman is a producer working with Gannett newsrooms around the Plains.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: Check South Dakota road conditions, traffic cameras amid winter storms