Sioux Falls, SD (KELO AM) - The Sioux Falls Police and Public Works departments would like to remind motorists to take extra precautions during this first snowstorm.
“The first snowfall is always a good time to remind drivers to slow down and allow extra time to reach their destinations,” says Doug Barthel, Police Chief. “Each year when the snow begins to accumulate for the first time, we see an increase in accidents, and most often the cause is overdriving the road conditions.”
The National Weather Service is forecasting up to 5 inches of snow on Saturday. Winds could increase on Sunday, causing much of the light, dry snow to blow across already cleared roadways.
“The Public Works Street Division is prepared for whatever the weather brings us, and snow gates have been mounted and will be ready if we need to declare a snow alert,” says Galynn Huber, Street and Fleet Operations Manager. “Please watch the local media and www.siouxfalls.org if indeed a snow alert needs to be declared this weekend.”
Stay safe on the roads by following these tips:
- Drive with caution. Reduce your speed when snow and/or ice are present on roadways, and allow at least three times the normal following distance from the vehicle in front of you.
- Always clear your entire windshield and other windows of snow and ice before driving. Use your headlights even during the daytime so that other drivers are sure to see you.
- When traveling through construction areas, be especially mindful of your speed and pay careful attention to your surroundings.
- Listen to weather predictions, and plan to leave home or work a little earlier to make it to your destination on time.
- Allow plenty of distance around snow removal equipment. Stay four car lengths behind maintenance vehicles so that the drivers can see you.
- Go to www.siouxfalls.org/snow to subscribe to text, email, or social media notifications when snow alerts are issued and to find helpful information regarding snow removal in Sioux Falls.