Pierre, S.D. – Residents across central South Dakota should prepare for damaging winds and large hail Monday evening as a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 10 p.m. CDT. Twelve counties, including Bennett, Haakon, and Hughes, are under the watch, with storms capable of producing wind gusts over 60 mph and hail up to an inch in diameter.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, the watch covers a wide swath of the state stretching from Oglala Lakota to Sully and includes population centers such as Pierre and Winner. The greatest risks are for sudden power outages, falling branches, and brief torrential downpours that could make roads hazardous—especially along U.S. Highways 83 and 18.
Lyman and Jones counties, as well as Mellette and Todd, should stay alert for rapidly changing conditions through the evening. Emergency managers recommend charging cell phones, securing outdoor items, and having a safe shelter plan in place. If outdoors, seek sturdy shelter immediately at the first sign of lightning or threatening skies.
This marks one of the most widespread severe thunderstorm watches in South Dakota so far this July. Additional watches or warnings may be issued if storms intensify or new cells develop. Residents are urged to monitor local alerts and avoid unnecessary travel until the threat passes.
