Fort Pierre, SD – Fire danger remains critical across portions of South Dakota as dry conditions persist through the week.
The National Weather Service in Aberdeen issued an Extreme Fire Danger Statement on Wednesday, warning residents in Stanley, Jones, and Lyman counties of heightened fire risks. According to officials, low relative humidity and dry vegetation could cause fires to ignite easily and spread rapidly.
Winds are expected to diminish overnight, bringing slight relief. However, snow in northeastern South Dakota and western Minnesota will taper off, leaving grasslands vulnerable to dry air. On Thursday, relative humidity levels are forecast to drop to between 40 and 60 percent, increasing the potential for dangerous fire conditions.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and exercise caution with flammable materials. Officials warn that fires could exhibit erratic behavior, making them harder to control.
The grassland fire danger index for Thursday is expected to decrease to low or moderate levels, offering a temporary reprieve. Fire prevention measures remain critical to protecting rangeland and surrounding areas.
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