SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Thick wildfire smoke drifting south from Canada is blanketing South Dakota, cutting visibility and sending air quality into the unhealthy range through early Thursday. Drivers may face just three miles of visibility on key highways, while those with asthma or heart conditions are urged to limit time outdoors.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, the heaviest concentrations of smoke will settle across eastern South Dakota, especially around Sioux Falls, Mitchell, and Yankton, by Wednesday evening. Northeastern Nebraska is also expected to see impacts. The agency warns that air quality will reach levels dangerous to sensitive groups, and even healthy individuals may notice coughing, eye irritation, or fatigue.
Officials recommend staying indoors when possible and reducing strenuous outdoor activity. Residents should keep windows closed and consider using air purifiers if available. Anyone experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing, or asthma flare-ups should seek medical help immediately.
Conditions should improve from north to south late Wednesday night into Thursday morning, though some areas could see lingering haze. Updates will continue as air quality changes.
