PIERRE, S.D.(KCCR)- A number of long duration winter storms last year led to frequent closures of the state’s two Interstate highways. The Department of Transportation is looking to formally close state highways too if conditions get that bad.

Operations Director Craig Smith says secondary highways that would fall under a closed status will not be physically blocked but it will be relayed through multiple traveler information systems.

Smith says any secondary highway closures would be reactionary.

Smith says stranded motorist are not only in danger to themselves but delay winter maintenance activities because those vehicles need to be removed before plowing can continue.