Sioux Falls, South Dakota – Strong thunderstorms forming over central South Dakota may bring large hail and damaging winds to the James River Valley by late Friday evening, with the highest risk expected between 7 and 10 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, storms are actively developing across central South Dakota and neighboring parts of Nebraska as of 5:30 p.m. Friday. While the eastward coverage of the storm axis remains uncertain, areas along and near the Missouri and James River Valleys—including Chamberlain, Mitchell, and Yankton—should prepare for the potential of severe weather impacts.
Residents along I-90 and Highway 281 are advised to monitor alerts and have shelter plans ready. The main hazards include frequent lightning, quarter-sized hail, and localized wind gusts strong enough to knock down tree limbs or power lines. Outdoor plans in towns like Pierre, Winner, and Lake Andes should be postponed or moved indoors.
This is not a widespread severe outbreak, but storms that do develop could intensify quickly. Stay weather-aware through the evening and be ready to act on warnings.
Storm activity may diminish overnight, but additional updates are expected if storm coverage increases.
