Rapid City, SD – South Dakota residents should prepare for an active weekend of severe weather. Beginning today, isolated strong to severe thunderstorms are expected across northeastern Wyoming and far western South Dakota from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. These storms could bring damaging winds of up to 60 MPH and hail up to one inch in diameter. Although confidence in severe storms is low, it’s essential to monitor the weather and have a safety plan.
A more significant threat looms on Saturday as a fire weather watch has been issued, beginning late Saturday morning and continuing through Saturday evening. The combination of dry fuels, low relative humidity, and gusty southwest winds of 15-25 MPH, with gusts up to 35 MPH, could create critical fire weather conditions across northeastern Wyoming and extreme southwestern South Dakota.
Temperatures will climb dramatically, with highs in the mid-80s to mid-90s on the plains and 80s over the Black Hills today. Saturday will see even hotter conditions, with highs in the 90s to lower 100s on the plains and 80s over the higher Black Hills. Residents should stay hydrated, take breaks in the shade, and avoid outdoor burning.
