Severe Winds Blow Semi-Trucks Off South Dakota Highway

Two incidents on Highway 79 in Custer County leave trucks overturned and blocking traffic

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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High winds in Custer County, South Dakota caused two semi-trucks to be blown off Highway 79 on Tuesday. The first truck was flipped on its side, blocking the northbound lanes near mile marker 44. The second incident occurred near mile marker 54 but did not block the highway.

Why it matters

Strong winds are a common occurrence in the Great Plains region, but incidents like these highlight the dangers they can pose to large commercial vehicles traveling on open highways. Keeping roads clear and safe for all drivers is a priority for local authorities.

The details

According to reports, the first semi-truck was blown off the road and flipped onto its side, blocking the northbound lanes of Highway 79 near mile marker 44. The second incident happened further south near mile marker 54, but that truck did not end up blocking the highway.

  • The incidents occurred on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Highway 79

A major highway running north-south through Custer County, South Dakota.

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The takeaway

High winds can pose serious risks to large vehicles on open highways, underscoring the importance of safety precautions and preparedness for extreme weather events in this region.