DOT expands closures on I-90, I-29 amid continued winter storm

South Dakota safety officials are closing off more stretches of interstates as a days-long winter storm continues impacting the region.

The Department of Transportation will close I-90 from Chamberlain to Mitchell at 4 p.m. Wednesday. This is in addition to the closure from Chamberlain to Rapid City, which has been closed since Tuesday.

In the northeast, the DOT will close I-29 from Watertown to the North Dakota border at 7 p.m. Wednesday, according to a press release.

Officials said the closures are in response to newly developing snow and sustained winds.

Driving conditions have been poor statewide since the winter weather system moved into the area Monday night into Tuesday morning. Central and western parts of the state have faced heavy snow and strong winds. The system began as rain and sleet in the east, but has since transitioned into snow.

Truck parking is full in Chamberlain. The DOT is asking that semi drivers consider long-term parking options in areas east of the closure.

Several other state highways remain impassable due to the ongoing winter weather conditions, according to the DOT.

"Many vehicles have become stuck and stranded in an attempt to travel on these state highways to avoid interstate closures," the release stated. "These vehicles will create hazards for snowplow operators and may delay getting the sections of highway cleared."

The DOT reopened I-90 from Rapid City to the Wyoming state line Wednesday afternoon. This section was closed Tuesday. Officials said slippery road conditions are still possible through this stretch.

For the latest on road and weather conditions, visit https://sd511.org or dial 511.

Brent Duerre

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SDPB