Winter Storm Warnings in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Sioux Falls sits on the open plains of southeastern South Dakota, where Arctic air masses can sweep down with little warning and transform a calm afternoon into a dangerous whiteout. Across the 13 years analyzed from 2012 through 2024, the city averaged 30.7 inches (77.9 cm) of snowfall per year — a steady seasonal burden spread unevenly across the cold months. The heaviest snow tends to fall in December, February, and January, in that general order, when moisture from the Gulf occasionally collides with deep cold pooling over the northern plains.
Truly intense snow events are relatively rare here. Heavy-snow days — those meeting a significant single-event threshold — average roughly 0.2 days per year, meaning most winters pass without one. Average winter overnight lows hover around 13°F (−10.5°C), cold enough that even modest snow accumulations become hazardous quickly when wind is involved.
A winter storm warning in Sioux Falls signals that conditions are expected to be severe enough to make travel dangerous or impossible — typically involving substantial snowfall, blowing snow, or a combination of ice and wind. It's worth knowing that warning thresholds are set locally by the National Weather Service and vary by region; the criteria used here differ from those in areas that see heavier or lighter seasonal snowfall.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 30.7 in (77.9 cm) |
| Snowiest months | December, February, January |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 13°F (−10.5°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 0.2 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in Sioux Falls within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
Sioux Falls winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Sioux Falls right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for Sioux Falls, South Dakota. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Sioux Falls get winter storm warnings often?
Sioux Falls sees significant snowfall in most winters, and winter storm warnings are issued in a typical season. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Sioux Falls?
There is no single national trigger: warning criteria are set by each local National Weather Service office, ranging from a couple of inches of snow in areas where snow is rare up to 6 inches or more in snow-belt regions, and significant ice accumulation can warrant a warning on its own.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in Sioux Falls?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from South Dakota authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Sioux City, IA
- Winter storm warning in Omaha, NE
- Winter storm warning in Aberdeen, SD
- Winter storm warning in Lincoln, NE
- Winter storm warning in Grand Island, NE
- Winter storm warning in Fargo, ND
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow the National Weather Service (NWS) criteria; thresholds vary by region.