Sioux Falls, SD – A Red Flag Warning is in effect this afternoon as warm temperatures, gusty winds, and low humidity create dangerous fire conditions across South Dakota. Meanwhile, cooler air and rain chances are set to arrive just in time for the first weekend of spring.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Sioux Falls, the Red Flag Warning will remain in place from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday. Winds from the southwest will range from 15 to 23 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. Humidity levels will drop as low as 15%, making outdoor burning highly dangerous. Residents should avoid any open flames, including campfires and controlled burns.
Friday brings a shift in weather as cloud cover increases and a 30% chance of rain moves in after 1 p.m. Highs will reach 52°F, but breezy northwest winds could gust up to 35 mph.
Saturday will be mostly sunny with a high near 64°F, but another round of rain is expected Saturday night. A 50% chance of rain is forecast, mainly before midnight, with overnight lows dropping to 37°F. Winds will remain strong, making for a blustery evening.
Sunday will see partly sunny skies with highs near 47°F and a slight chance of lingering showers. The start of next week looks calmer, with sunny skies and highs in the low 50s on Monday and Tuesday.
With changing conditions, residents should stay updated on fire risks and be prepared for cooler, wetter spring weather this weekend.
