Very Strong Winds Expected for South Dakota

High Wind Warnings are in effect for all of South Dakota and a good part of the north plains for today and into tonight. The latest weather alerts for South Dakota and additional details can be found on our Weather Alerts page.

Wind gusts up to hurricane force are expected today, which could cause damage. Starting this afternoon, gusts over 40mph will push into the western side of the state with some gusts over 60mph.

By mid-afternoon, the strongest winds are expected with gusts over 60mph, with some gusts up to 80mph possible in the west. The winds would have increased in the east, but around 30-40mph gusts.

Then by the evening hours, widespread strong winds with gusts over 50mph in the east and over 60mph in the west and central South Dakota.

Later tonight, the winds will start to decrease for the west and slow-moving into the east of South Dakota by Friday morning.

With the strong winds along with low relative humidity, this is creating high fire danger for much of the central and southern regions of the state, where Red Flag Warnings are in effect. Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.