Rapid City, S.D. – Severe storms capable of producing large hail and damaging winds are expected to roll through western Nebraska and southwestern South Dakota through 11 p.m. Tuesday, prompting an active Severe Thunderstorm Watch for 27 counties.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, the watch covers regions from Pennington and Meade in South Dakota to Cherry and Keith counties in Nebraska. Storms may include wind gusts over 60 mph and hail larger than quarters, particularly along Highway 385 and I-80 corridors.
In South Dakota, residents in areas like Rapid City, Hot Springs, and Pine Ridge should secure outdoor items and prepare for sudden downpours and brief power outages. Western Nebraska towns such as Alliance, Ogallala, and Chadron may also face reduced visibility and hazardous travel conditions into the night.
Emergency officials urge drivers to avoid flooded rural roads and be ready to shelter indoors if warnings are issued. Lightning poses a risk across open rangeland, parks, and outdoor recreation spots common during early July.
The watch remains in effect until 11 p.m. MDT, with additional alerts possible as storms continue to develop along the Wyoming-Nebraska border and Black Hills region.
