Rapid City, SD – Strong winds are sweeping across western South Dakota this evening, with gusts up to 60 miles per hour prompting a High Wind Warning through 9 p.m. MDT Monday, according to the National Weather Service in Rapid City.
The warning includes Ziebach, Harding, Perkins, Butte, and Meade Counties, along with parts of the Cheyenne River Reservation. Cities such as Belle Fourche, Dupree, Lemmon, and Faith are expected to experience hazardous conditions through Monday night.
According to forecasters, northwest winds of 35 to 45 mph will continue through the evening, with localized gusts topping 60 mph. The NWS warns that the high winds could damage roofs, small outbuildings, and signs, and cause scattered power outages.
Travel is expected to be difficult for high-profile vehicles, especially along Highways 212, 85, and 34, where blowing dust may reduce visibility. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items and avoid unnecessary travel until winds ease later tonight.
Conditions are forecast to improve after midnight, with calmer winds returning by early Tuesday morning across the western plains.
