Rural and remote South Dakotans have already dealt with a challenging winter, complete with impassable roads and rescues tales of people in stranded cars or snowed-in homes.
In Tripp County, emergency manager Jon Burdette said in these conditions, communication saves lives.
“A lot of our elderly need medication, remind them to get that. Propane is big around here, have them get that all filled up. It’s just reminding people," Burdette said. "We learned from the last big snowstorm about people not wanting to stay off the roads so, if it’s a no-travel advisory definitely don’t go, be stocked up on medication and groceries, and check up on your neighbors.”
It’s a message heard on the nearby Rosebud Reservation, which was dealt a heavy blow during December's blizzards. President Scott Herman said they’re ready for this week’s weather.
“We have three different entities moving snow, so I think if we all work together during the storm, we’ll be okay," Herman said. "We’ve been sending out PSA’s, basically telling people to get ready for the storm and to make sure they have food and that their heating source is taken care of before the storm hits.”
Budget allocations have also been made for people in need of assistance during the storm
Rosebud Sioux Tribe emergency coordinator Angela Hacker said for the recovering community, a recent disaster declaration has provided needed assistance to the area.
“President Biden did declare a major disaster, the (December) storm took a pounding on us, and we’re going to use that information to be better prepared in the future," Hacker said. "We have received some calls, we know people are requesting some assistance, so we’re going to provide that assistance as best we can in preparation for this storm.”
The South Dakota Department of Public Safety is asking people to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm. They say getting stranded puts not only you in danger, but also those who would be sent to rescue you.
