SDDOT to host pre-winter travel safety webinar Nov. 20 - KOTA

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) - The South Dakota Department of Transportation, in partnership with the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the National Weather Service, will host a Pre-Winter Travel Resource and Safety Webinar on Thursday, Nov. 20 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The event will take place virtually via Zoom and is open to anyone who wants to learn more.

The webinar will feature the 2025-2026 winter weather forecast from the NWS, along with important updates from SDDOT and Highway Patrol staff on winter maintenance operations, safety tips, and resources available to help travelers make informed decisions during severe weather.

One key resource highlighted will be SDDOT’s text notification service, introduced last winter, which provides subscribers with real-time updates on winter-related Interstate closures. This free service complements the existing SD511 system. To subscribe, text ‘SDInterstates’ to 605-836-8836.

Officials will also discuss the new Variable Speed Limit system installed along Interstate 29 near Brookings. The VSL system is designed to improve safety during hazardous winter driving conditions by adjusting speed limits based on real-time conditions.

Read the full story here: South Dakota Department of Transportation to host pre-winter travel safety webinar Nov. 20