Rapid City, South Dakota – Wind gusts up to 60 mph and humidity dropping to 13 percent will create explosive fire conditions across western South Dakota and northeast Wyoming by midday Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Rapid City, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect from 11 a.m. MST (noon CST) until 6 p.m. MST (7 p.m. CST) for the Black Hills, Pine Ridge, Badlands, Bennett County, Tripp County and west central plains of South Dakota, along with Campbell, Crook and Weston counties in northeast Wyoming. Westerly winds will increase to 25 to 35 mph, with stronger gusts developing through the afternoon.
Communities including Rapid City, Spearfish, Custer, Hot Springs, Chadron and Gillette face critical fire weather as very dry air spreads across receptive winter fuels. Open grasslands and lower elevations east of the Black Hills could see rapid fire growth if an ignition occurs.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, secure trailer chains and delay activities that could create sparks. Strong winds may also make high-profile vehicle travel difficult along Interstate 90 and U.S. Highway 16.
The warning expires early Tuesday evening, but fire crews caution that elevated fire danger could persist if dry and windy conditions continue later this week.
