Lake Andes, SD – Residents in southeastern Charles Mix and Gregory counties are urged to seek immediate shelter as a dangerous tornado warning remains in effect until 7:45 p.m. Monday. Large hail and a possible tornado threaten communities from Pickstown to Wagner this evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, radar detected strong rotation in a severe thunderstorm over Pickstown at 6:54 p.m., moving east at 25 mph. The storm is producing golf ball-size hail and may generate a tornado as it tracks toward Lake Andes, Marty, Ravinia, and Wagner between 7:00 and 7:05 p.m.
The primary threat includes flying debris, damage to homes, vehicles, and trees. Local emergency officials urge everyone to move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Residents in mobile homes, vehicles, or outdoors should find shelter immediately and stay away from windows.
This is a life-threatening situation for Lake Andes, Pickstown, Marty, Ravinia, and Wagner, as well as nearby rural roads and highways. Power outages and blocked roads are possible. Stay tuned to local alerts, and do not leave shelter until the warning expires or is lifted. Further updates may follow as the situation develops.
