Sioux Falls, SD — Fire danger is high across South Dakota today as dry conditions and gusty winds pose a serious risk for wildfires. Residents near Highway 18 and Interstate 90 should take precautions as elevated fire risk warnings cover the region. The National Weather Service (NWS) has urged residents to avoid outdoor burning, as wildfires can quickly spread due to strong northwesterly winds expected to reach up to 40 mph.
According to the NWS Sioux Falls, today’s temperatures will range from the mid-50s to low 60s, but dry grasses and brush, combined with the gusty winds, make conditions ripe for fire outbreaks. The most impacted areas are expected to include Sioux Falls, Brookings, and Mitchell, where fire danger is rated as high to very high. Residents should also be aware of frost risks on Monday and Tuesday mornings as cooler weather moves in.
The NWS recommends avoiding activities that could spark fires, such as discarding cigarette butts or using heavy equipment that may cause sparks. Additionally, keep an eye on any outdoor fires, as a small spark could rapidly ignite a wildfire under today’s conditions.
Looking ahead to the week, Monday and Tuesday are expected to bring cooler temperatures, with highs in the low 50s and possible frost during the mornings. By midweek, conditions will improve with milder weather and mostly sunny skies on Wednesday. Wind gusts will gradually ease after today, but caution remains key as dry fuels are expected to persist.
