Rapid City, S.D. – Any spark could turn into a fast-moving grassfire across western South Dakota this afternoon as wind gusts up to 45 mph combine with humidity levels as low as 18 percent near US-85, SD-79 and stretches of I-90 through sunset Thursday.
Temperatures will surge into the 50s and low 60s under mostly clear skies, drying out already cured grasses across Harding, Butte and northern Meade County Plains. The most dangerous window develops late this morning through early evening as winds strengthen from the west to northwest.
According to the National Weather Service in Rapid City, sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph are expected across northwestern South Dakota. Southwestern and south-central areas could see sustained winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph. The Grassland Fire Danger Index has reached the extreme category for Harding, Butte and northern Meade counties.
Communities including Buffalo, Belle Fourche, Faith and surrounding rural areas face critical burning conditions. Fires that start could spread rapidly, behave erratically and become difficult to control, especially in open rangeland along US-212 and SD-34.
Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. Secure trailer chains, avoid parking vehicles over dry grass and report smoke immediately to local authorities.
Conditions ease slightly Friday, but fire danger will remain very high. Additional statements or restrictions are possible if winds increase or humidity drops further across western South Dakota.
