Sioux Falls, South Dakota – Grass fires could spread rapidly within minutes Monday afternoon as strong winds and dry air align across eastern South Dakota, creating dangerous burn conditions during peak daytime hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, a Fire Weather Watch is in effect Monday afternoon, with relative humidity dropping below 25% and wind gusts exceeding 40 mph. These conditions, combined with dry spring vegetation, sharply increase the risk for fast-moving fires across the region.
The highest concern stretches from Brookings through Sioux Falls to Yankton, where sustained winds of 25 to 35 mph will push flames quickly across open fields and along roadways like I-29 and I-90. Areas near Mitchell and Huron could also see gusts over 35 mph, making any spark difficult to contain. Emergency managers warn that debris burning or unattended equipment could ignite fires that spread beyond control lines in minutes.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, secure trailer chains, and report smoke immediately. Power equipment use should be limited during peak afternoon hours when winds are strongest.
Conditions ease slightly Tuesday, but another round of critical fire danger returns Wednesday, with near-critical conditions lingering into Thursday. Additional alerts may be issued as the pattern continues through midweek.
