Dangerous driving conditions in Central South Dakota
Dangerous driving conditions in Central South Dakota
Pierre, SD - South Dakota Department of Transportation officials advise that areas of low visibility and drifting snow along I-90 and surrounding highways in central South Dakota are making travel conditions hazardous.
Increasing wind is causing drifting at bridge ends and in sheltered areas, as well as zero to near zero visibility.Other highways in South Dakota are experiencing similar conditions and drivers are urged to slow down and use extreme caution.
“I strongly encourage people who must travel to visit www.safetravelusa.com or call 511 to check the latest road conditions and travel advisories before heading out,” said Greg Fuller, Director of Operations. “Keep in mind that visibility and road conditions can change rapidly as the storm passes through the South Dakota.”
If you must travel, the Departments of Transportation and Public Safety recommend travelers also take the following steps.
Wear your seatbelt.
Travel during the day.
Drive with your headlights on so that you can be seen by other motorists.
Use highly traveled roads and highways.
Keep family and friends informed of your travel schedule and route.
Call 511 or visit safetravelusa.com for road conditions.
Keep a winter weather survival kit in your car. The kit should include blankets, warm clothing, water, energy bars, a flashlight, a distress flag, a shovel and matches.
Travel with a charged cell phone, but don’t rely on it to get you out of a bad situation.
- Change travel plans as weather conditions warrant.If you do get stranded:- Stay with your vehicle.
Run the engine and heater about ten minutes an hour to stay warm.
When the engine is running, open a window slightly to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Periodically clearing snow from the exhaust pipe will also help prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
When it’s dark outside, turn on your interior light so rescuers can see you.
Put up a distress flag, or spread a large colored cloth on the ground to attract attention from rescuers.
