Drought Conditions Intensify in South Dakota and Surrounding Plains States

Drought is tightening its grip on South Dakota and neighboring states across the High Plains. Recent data from the latest Drought Monitor reveals a sharp increase in drought-affected areas, with nearly 400,000 people in South Dakota now living under drought conditions. The state began the year with less than 20% of its land experiencing dryness or drought, but that figure has surged to almost 50%. This shift signals growing challenges for agriculture, water resources, and communities throughout the region.

Current Drought Status Across South Dakota

South Dakota’s drought situation has worsened significantly over the past months. The latest figures estimate that 395,704 residents are currently affected by drought conditions. This rise from 19.45% to 49.81% of the state’s area under dryness or drought reflects a rapid deterioration in moisture levels.

The drought ranges from moderate to severe in many parts of the state. Central and western South Dakota are particularly hard hit, with soil moisture levels dropping and surface water bodies shrinking. This affects not only farming but also local ecosystems that depend on consistent water availability.

Drought Trends in the High Plains Region

South Dakota is not alone in facing these challenges. The High Plains region, which includes parts of Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana, and Colorado, shows a mixed precipitation pattern that has contributed to uneven drought conditions.

• Eastern Kansas received moderate to heavy rainfall, helping ease the area's dryness.

• The southern tier of the region saw scattered light to moderate precipitation, providing some relief.

• Northern areas, including much of Wyoming and central to eastern Montana, experienced very little rainfall, leading to widespread drought deterioration.

  
  

This pattern has created a broad swath of moderate drought or worse, stretching from Nebraska westward through Wyoming and into Colorado. Severe drought conditions (classified as D2 or worse) are widespread across western Nebraska, southern Wyoming, and northern and central Colorado.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect

The drought situation in South Dakota and the High Plains remains fluid. Weather patterns in the coming months will determine whether conditions improve or worsen. The latest GFS and ECMWF forecast models show precipitation amounts for most to be little or none through next Thursday, with a few pockets seeing up to a half-inch. Looking ahead, the seasonal forecasts suggest that precipitation may remain below average in some areas, prolonging drought stress.

Residents and stakeholders should stay alert to updates from the Drought Monitor and local authorities. Early action and cooperation can help reduce the long-term impacts of drought on agriculture, water resources, and communities.