Sioux Falls, SD – A Red Flag Warning has been issued for parts of southeastern South Dakota, northeastern Nebraska, and northwestern Iowa from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday due to critical fire weather conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, wind gusts between 35 to 45 mph combined with low relative humidity levels of 25% to 30% and dry grasses will create a volatile fire environment throughout the afternoon and early evening hours. Counties impacted include Yankton, Bon Homme, Union, and Clay in South Dakota; Knox and Cedar in Nebraska; and Woodbury and Plymouth in Iowa.
The warning comes as winds are forecast to peak around 4 p.m., with humidity bottoming out during the same period. These conditions significantly elevate the risk of wildfires spreading rapidly, particularly in open grassland and agricultural areas.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, secure loose debris, and exercise extreme caution with equipment that can spark. Travel through rural areas should be limited during peak wind hours.
This event aligns with seasonal fire weather patterns but exceeds average wind speeds for mid-April. Fire officials advise monitoring local alerts and preparing emergency evacuation plans in case of rapidly developing fires.
