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Blizzard Conditions Lead to School Closures and Travel Advisories in Northeastern South Dakota

  • Writer: WeatherSD
    WeatherSD
  • 3 hours ago
  • 2 min read

Northeastern South Dakota is currently facing severe winter weather that has disrupted travel. Law enforcement agencies are responding to numerous vehicles in ditches and accidents caused by slick roads and poor visibility. A blizzard warning remains in effect, with high winds and blowing snow making travel dangerous. This situation has led to widespread school closures and travel advisories across the region.


Northeast South Dakota during Blizzard Conditions on February 28th, 2026
Photo Credit: SD Highway Patrol of US Highway 12 in Northeast, South Dakota

The South Dakota Highway Patrol has reported multiple incidents, including a semi truck that slid into a ditch on US Highway 12 between Webster and Waubay. The roads are extremely slick due to ice and snow accumulation, and strong winds are causing blowing snow that drastically reduces visibility. These conditions increase the risk of accidents and make driving hazardous.


Semi in Ditch on US Highway 12 near Webster, South Dakota
Photo Credit: SD Highway Patrol

The South Dakota Department of Transportation has issued No Travel Advisories for several areas, including Aberdeen, Leola, Britton, Webster, and Mellette (areas in red on the map below).


Road Conditions in South Dakota at 9:30am CST on February 18th, 2026


Impact on Schools and Community Services


The blizzard has forced many schools and community centers to close for the day. This includes a broad range of districts and facilities across the northeastern part of the state. Here are some of the closures and changes:


  • Aberdeen Area Senior Center: Closed with no Meals on Wheels delivery.

  • Aberdeen Catholic School System: All PK-12 classes canceled.

  • Aberdeen Head Start and Aberdeen School District: Closed for the day.

  • Arlington School District: Closed.

  • Bowdle School District: Closed.

  • Britton Public Library: Closed, reopening Thursday at 8:30 AM.

  • Britton-Hecla School District: Closed.

  • Castlewood and Clark School Districts: Closed.

  • Doland Public School: Closed, science fair postponed to February 23.

  • Edmunds Central and Eureka School Districts: Closed.

  • Faulkton School District: Starting classes at 10:00 AM.

  • Florence and Frederick Area Schools: Closed.

  • Groton and Hamlin Schools: Closed.

  • Henry School District: Closed.

  • Hoven School District: Starting classes at 10:00 AM, small group contest postponed.

  • Ipswich and Langford Schools: Closed.





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