Rapid City, S.D. – Overnight temperatures dipping close to freezing will bring the first widespread frost of the season to parts of South Dakota and northeast Wyoming early Saturday. Residents from Rapid City to Gillette are being urged to protect gardens and sensitive plants before temperatures fall.
According to the National Weather Service in Rapid City, a frost advisory is in effect from 2 a.m. to 7 a.m. MDT Saturday, covering much of western and south-central South Dakota as well as Campbell and Weston counties in Wyoming. Lows could reach 31 degrees in spots, cold enough to damage unprotected vegetation.
Communities including Pine Ridge, Wall, Kadoka, Mission, and Newcastle are under the advisory. Ranching and agricultural areas across Ziebach, Meade, Jackson, and Haakon counties may see widespread frost coverage.
Officials recommend covering outdoor plants or bringing containers inside. Gardeners should prepare irrigation systems to avoid freeze damage and livestock owners are urged to ensure water sources remain unfrozen overnight.
The advisory expires after sunrise Saturday, but another round of chilly mornings could follow into early next week if skies remain clear.
