Sioux Falls, SD – The National Weather Service (NWS) in Sioux Falls has issued an Elevated Fire Danger alert for parts of central and eastern South Dakota today, as strong winds and dry conditions create an increased risk for grassland and field fires.
Forecasters report gusts between 35 and 40 miles per hour are expected west of Highway 81, tapering to around 25 mph in northwest Iowa. While relative humidity will range between 45% and 65% this afternoon, the combination of strong winds and very dry vegetation will heighten the potential for rapid fire spread.
“Despite higher humidity values, elevated fire danger is expected this afternoon due to strong winds and dry fields,” NWS Sioux Falls noted in its early-morning update on Sunday, October 26.
The greatest fire concern will extend from areas near Chamberlain and Mitchell eastward toward Madison and Brookings, where fields remain dry and harvest activity continues. Fire danger may be locally higher where grasses and crops are exceptionally dry.
Residents are advised to avoid outdoor burning, properly extinguish cigarettes, and use caution when operating farm or outdoor equipment that could generate sparks. Even a small fire could spread quickly under today’s breezy conditions.
Winds are expected to gradually ease by evening as humidity levels increase, reducing the immediate fire threat overnight.
