Weather
South Dakota Weather: Gusty Weekend Before 70s Return Wednesday Oct 21
Sioux Falls, SD – Strong winds and locally elevated fire danger could create hazardous conditions across southeastern South Dakota Saturday, October 17, as southerly winds strengthen following a cold,
By Audrey Sloan · 2026-10-17T09:02:21.392Z
Sioux Falls, SD – Strong winds and locally elevated fire danger could create hazardous conditions across southeastern South Dakota Saturday, October 17, as southerly winds strengthen following a cold, frosty morning. Gusts could reach 45 mph along the Buffalo Ridge, with breezy conditions continuing into Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, southerly winds are expected to increase rapidly Saturday, producing widespread gusts between 25 and 35 mph. The strongest gusts, approaching 45 mph, are possible along the Buffalo Ridge in southwestern Minnesota.
The windy conditions could create difficulties for high profile vehicles traveling on exposed highways, particularly across open agricultural areas.
Fire danger is another concern, especially in locations that received little rainfall recently.
The Weather Service warns that locally elevated fire danger is possible throughout the weekend. Residents should avoid activities that could produce sparks and exercise caution with outdoor burning.
Cold Morning Gives Way to Warmer Weather
Saturday begins with frost across portions of the region before afternoon temperatures climb into the 55 to 70 degree range.
Overnight temperatures are expected to fall between 39 and 44 degrees.
Sunday will remain breezy, with afternoon highs reaching 61 to 69 degrees and overnight lows between 36 and 41 degrees.
By Monday, temperatures should reach 62 to 65 degrees, followed by highs between 64 and 68 degrees Tuesday.
Wednesday brings another noticeable warmup, with temperatures climbing into the 70 to 74 degree range under mostly sunny skies.
The Weather Service expects generally dry conditions through midweek, with sunshine and near to above average temperatures dominating the forecast.
October 22–26 Extended Weather Outlook
NOAA's Climate Prediction Center favors above normal temperatures across much of South Dakota during October 22–26, supporting the warming trend expected by midweek.
The precipitation outlook also favors above normal precipitation across much of the state, indicating an increased likelihood of a wetter pattern later in the month.
However, the outlook does not guarantee rainfall on any particular day.
Residents should monitor updated National Weather Service forecasts for changing wind conditions and fire danger through the weekend.