Weather
Sioux Falls, SD Fire Danger Oct. 23: Wind Gusts Up to 45 MPH
Sioux Falls, SD – Residents across southeastern South Dakota should prepare for increasing fire danger Friday, October 23, as strong winds, warm temperatures and dry vegetation create potentially haza
By Elliot Vaughn · 2026-10-22T14:53:31.148Z
Sioux Falls, SD – Residents across southeastern South Dakota should prepare for increasing fire danger Friday, October 23, as strong winds, warm temperatures and dry vegetation create potentially hazardous conditions before a major weather change arrives this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service NWS in Sioux Falls, widespread fire danger is expected Friday as southerly wind gusts reach 30 to 45 mph across portions of eastern South Dakota, southwestern Minnesota, northwestern Iowa and northeastern Nebraska.
Friday Brings Greatest Fire Concerns
Temperatures Friday are forecast to reach 75 to 81 degrees, unusually warm conditions that, combined with strong winds and dry vegetation, could allow fires to spread rapidly if ignited.
Forecasters are particularly concerned about agricultural operations, where dry fields and machinery could increase the potential for accidental fires.
Thursday, October 22, also brings elevated fire danger, with temperatures reaching 77 to 80 degrees and southerly wind gusts of 20 to 30 mph.
Weekend Weather Changes Ahead
By Saturday, October 24, temperatures are expected to range from 57 to 75 degrees as scattered showers develop and winds shift from the south toward the northwest.
Gusts could still reach 20 to 30 mph Saturday.
Sunday brings a more noticeable cooldown, with highs ranging from 48 to 60 degrees and increasing chances for rainfall.
The NWS expects more widespread rain opportunities from the weekend into Monday as a changing weather pattern moves across the region.
What Residents Should Know
Residents in Sioux Falls, Minnehaha County and surrounding communities should use extra caution with outdoor burning, equipment that produces sparks and other potential ignition sources Friday.
Drivers should also prepare for strong crosswinds, particularly on exposed rural highways.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updated NWS forecasts as fire danger peaks Friday and rain chances increase through the weekend.