Rapid City, SD – A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for western South Dakota, effective until midnight tonight. Residents should prepare for potentially hazardous weather conditions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) reports that scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop and intensify through the late afternoon and evening. These storms may bring severe wind gusts up to 70 mph and large hailstones up to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Residents are advised to secure outdoor objects that could be blown away by strong winds and to stay indoors during the storm. Motorists should exercise caution, as sudden gusts and reduced visibility can make driving dangerous.
The NWS emphasizes that a severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather. The watch area covers approximately 85 miles north and south of a line from 65 miles southwest of Miles City, MT to 45 miles north-northeast of Rapid City. Severe thunderstorms can occasionally produce tornadoes.
