I-29 Closed in South Dakota Due to Severe Winter Storm

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The South Dakota Department of Transportation has closed I-29 between the North Dakota-South Dakota state line and Sioux Falls due to a combination of heavy snow and sustained strong winds creating snow-covered roads, blocked bridges and underpasses, and greatly reduced visibilities. The closures are expected to remain in place through Sunday.

Why it matters

Major highway closures can significantly disrupt travel and commerce across the region, forcing drivers to find alternative routes and causing delays. This storm highlights the importance of state transportation departments being proactive in closing dangerous roadways to protect public safety.

The details

The I-29 closures are being implemented in phases - the section between the North Dakota border and Watertown was closed at 9pm, followed by the closure between Watertown and Brookings at 10:30pm. The final closure between Brookings and Sioux Falls will take effect at midnight. The Department of Transportation is advising drivers not to use secondary highways and local roads to avoid the closures, as conditions are expected to continually deteriorate overnight.

• The I-29 closure between the North Dakota-South Dakota state line and Watertown took effect at 9pm on March 15, 2026.
• The I-29 closure between Watertown and Brookings took effect at 10:30pm on March 15, 2026.
• The I-29 closure between Brookings and Sioux Falls will take effect at 12am on March 16, 2026.

What’s next

Dependent upon final snow accumulations and sustained winds, some Interstate and State highway closures are anticipated to be in place through the day on Sunday, March 16, 2026.