SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.com) — The National Weather Service says conditions will “rapidly deteriorate” when snow hits Sioux Falls Friday morning.
A winter storm warning will go into effect at 6 a.m. Friday, lasting until 6 p.m. Saturday. Forecasters say once the storm hits visibility will drop quickly.
The NWS predicts 5 to 7 inches of snow in the Sioux Falls metro area. Wind gusts of up to 50 mph are expected.
The NWS has emphasized how quickly conditions will worsen when snow arrives, particularly for people driving to work Friday morning.
The NWS posted the following on their Sioux Falls Facebook page:
- Our winter storm will begin to impact the region early tomorrow morning, with snow & areas of blowing snow likely through the day. Heavy snowfall rates of 1 inch/hour will be possible with this initial surge of snow, which may impact your Friday morning commute.
- Of course, it’s not a good winter storm without wind & this one will have plenty. While gusty winds are expected with the snow on Friday, the strongest winds are expected late Friday night & Saturday. Blowing snow is likely, and blizzard conditions are possible in areas which receive at least an inch or two of snow on Friday.
Stay tuned to KELO Radio for the latest on the approaching winter storm. Also, check the KELO.com Cancellations page here for school and other closings and snow alerts.
(Liz Ryan, KELO.com News, contributed to this report.)
