Rapid City, South Dakota — A widespread High Wind Warning is in effect across western South Dakota and portions of northeast Wyoming, with damaging northwest winds expected from Thursday into Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Rapid City, winds of 35 to 55 miles per hour with gusts ranging from 60 to 80 miles per hour are forecast across large portions of the region. The strongest winds are expected from midnight tonight through Friday afternoon, with some areas remaining under warning conditions until Friday night.
The warning includes Rapid City, Sturgis, Spearfish, Belle Fourche, Wall, Faith, Lemmon, Pine Ridge, Hot Springs, and surrounding communities, as well as parts of northeast Wyoming, including Gillette, Newcastle, Moorcroft, Upton, Wright, and Devils Tower. The Black Hills, surrounding foothills, and adjacent plains are all affected.
Forecasters warned that the winds could blow down large trees, damage roofs, signs, and outbuildings, and lead to scattered power outages. Travel may become difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles, with blowing dust, reduced visibility, and flying debris possible. In some areas, blowing snow may further reduce visibility if snowfall develops.
Different portions of the region will see peak impacts at different times, with warnings beginning as early as 11 a.m. Thursday in parts of western South Dakota and continuing through Friday evening in the Black Hills and Pine Ridge areas.
Residents are urged to secure loose objects, avoid outdoor activities during peak wind periods, and use caution if travel is unavoidable. Drivers should remain alert for sudden crosswinds and debris on roadways.
