Sioux Falls, S.D. – Drivers and residents across eastern South Dakota should brace for powerful winds Thursday afternoon and evening, with gusts reaching 45 to 50 mph in several counties. The strongest winds are expected west of Interstate 29, where blowing dust and hazardous travel could develop quickly.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, a Wind Advisory is in effect from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. Thursday. Communities including Mitchell, Huron, Chamberlain, and Brookings are under the advisory, with Sioux Falls and surrounding areas also expected to see gusts over 40 mph during the evening commute.
The combination of strong winds and dry conditions could make travel especially risky for high-profile vehicles along I-90 and secondary highways. Loose outdoor items should be secured before mid-afternoon to prevent property damage. Residents are urged to use extra caution when driving, especially in open country where crosswinds will be strongest.
Winds will gradually weaken overnight, but breezy conditions will linger into Friday morning before subsiding further by midday. Additional advisories are not expected beyond Thursday night, though scattered gusts could remain noticeable into the weekend.
