Sioux Falls, South Dakota – A dangerous stretch of extreme heat is set to grip the tri-state region starting Friday morning, with heat index values soaring to 108 degrees across parts of South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, and Nebraska.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, an Extreme Heat Watch is in effect from 8 a.m. Friday through 10 p.m. Saturday, impacting dozens of counties including Minnehaha, Plymouth, Rock, Lyon, and Woodbury. The combination of high humidity and soaring temperatures could cause rapid onset heat illness, especially for outdoor workers and vulnerable populations.
Cities like Sioux Falls, Sioux City, Spencer, and Worthington could see actual temperatures in the upper 90s, with humidity making it feel far hotter. Urban areas may retain heat overnight, limiting relief and raising health risks.
Residents are urged to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity, and check on elderly neighbors. Avoid leaving pets or children in vehicles under any circumstance—interior temperatures can become lethal in minutes.
Cooling centers may open across the region if warnings are upgraded. Power companies are also asking residents to reduce strain on the grid during peak hours.
Heat alerts could be upgraded to warnings by Thursday evening. Stay tuned for official updates.
