Sioux Falls, S.D. – The July sun is beating down across eastern South Dakota, and a light veil of wildfire smoke is beginning to soften the blue sky. By this afternoon, temperatures will surge into the upper 90s, making today the hottest day of the workweek before noticeably cooler air arrives by midweek.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, highs will climb to 97 degrees Monday, while heat index values may reach 102 degrees. Patchy smoke is expected through much of the afternoon before gradually easing later today. South-southwest winds around 10 mph will shift northwesterly during the afternoon, with gusts reaching 20 mph.
The combination of heat and smoke may create uncomfortable conditions for anyone working or exercising outdoors. Drink plenty of water, limit strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the afternoon, and take frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces. Sensitive groups may also notice reduced air quality at times.
Travel conditions remain generally favorable on Interstate 29, Interstate 90, and area highways, but the afternoon heat can stress both vehicles and drivers. Check coolant levels before longer trips, carry extra water, and never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
The weather pattern changes quickly beginning Tuesday. Sunshine returns with a much cooler high near 83 degrees, along with north winds of 10 to 15 mph and occasional gusts to 25 mph. By Wednesday, highs settle near 82 degrees under mostly sunny skies, providing a welcome break from Monday’s intense summer heat.
Later in the week, isolated showers become possible Thursday afternoon and Thursday night, though widespread severe weather is not expected. The National Weather Service’s Hazardous Weather Outlook notes heat remains the primary concern early this week, while any tornado threat stays well west and south of the Sioux Falls area.
Looking beyond this week, climate outlooks continue to favor above-normal temperatures returning late next week, suggesting another round of midsummer warmth could develop across the northern Plains.
How hot has it become where you are today? Let us know what you’re seeing around Sioux Falls.
Five-Day Forecast for Sioux Falls, South Dakota
- Monday: Sunny and hot with patchy smoke. High 97°, heat index up to 102°. Gusts to 20 mph. Low 69°.
- Tuesday: Sunny and noticeably cooler. High 83°, low 59°. North winds with gusts up to 25 mph.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny. High 82°, low 62°.
- Thursday: Partly sunny with a 30% chance of afternoon showers. High 82°, low 63°.
- Friday: Partly sunny and pleasant. High 84°.
