Beresford, SD (April 26, 2026) – Authorities are investigating a multi-vehicle crash involving 12 vehicles that occurred during a dust storm Friday evening along Interstate 29 in southeastern South Dakota.
According to the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, the crash happened around 5:20 p.m. approximately five miles north of Beresford near mile marker 54, just south of the Fairview exitBeresford, SD . Officials reported that rapidly developing dust conditions caused “extremely limited visibility” across the interstate, contributing to a chain-reaction collision.
The crash involved three semi-trucks, three pickup trucks, and six passenger vehicles. Investigators say the low visibility led to multiple impacts as traffic slowed and drivers were unable to see conditions ahead in time to stop safely.
Authorities confirmed that occupants of three vehicles reported injuries. No injuries were reported in the remaining vehicles involved. Officials also stated that neither alcohol nor drugs appear to be factors in the crash.
The southbound lanes of I-29 were fully closed for about an hour while emergency crews responded and cleared the roadway. A single lane remained closed for an additional hour as recovery efforts continued.
The South Dakota Highway Patrol is still investigating the incident, and no charges have been announced.
We extend our sincere thoughts to all those affected and wish any injured individuals a full and speedy recovery.
How Dust Storms Create Dangerous Driving Conditions on Highways
Dust storms can rapidly reduce visibility to near zero, leaving drivers with little to no warning of slowed or stopped traffic ahead. On high-speed highways like I-29, this can quickly lead to chain-reaction crashes involving multiple vehicles.
Large commercial trucks and passenger vehicles alike are vulnerable in these conditions, especially when drivers are unable to safely adjust speed in time. The sudden loss of visibility can make even familiar routes extremely hazardous.
Safety officials recommend pulling off the roadway completely if visibility drops significantly, using hazard lights, and avoiding sudden braking when possible. These preventive steps can help reduce the risk of multi-vehicle collisions during severe weather events.
