Rapid City, SD – Critical fire weather conditions are driving elevated wildfire risk across western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming Thursday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Rapid City, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 7 p.m. MDT for multiple مناطق across the Black Hills region and surrounding plains. The alert includes areas such as the Central and Southern Black Hills, Fall River County, the Pine Ridge Area, and parts of Campbell, Crook, and Weston counties in Wyoming.
Forecasters report west winds between 10 and 20 mph, with gusts reaching up to 35 mph. Relative humidity levels are expected to drop as low as 11 percent, creating an environment highly favorable for rapid fire ignition and spread.
The warning covers Fire Weather Zones 314 through 317 in Wyoming and 320 through 327, along with 329 and 332 in South Dakota. These include both forested مناطق and open plains, where dry fuels and wind alignment can accelerate fire behavior.
Officials warn that any fires that develop could spread quickly and become difficult to control. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged during this period, and residents are urged to avoid activities that could generate sparks.
The combination of dry air and gusty winds is expected to persist through the late afternoon before conditions gradually improve this evening.
This alert is especially relevant for rural residents, outdoor workers, and travelers, as even small ignitions along roadways can escalate rapidly under current conditions.
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