Sioux Falls, South Dakota – Residents in eastern South Dakota may be awoken early Sunday by strong to severe thunderstorms with hail up to the size of ping-pong balls and damaging winds gusting to 65 mph. According to the National Weather Service, the greatest threat occurs between 4 and 8 a.m., particularly north of Highway 14.
According to the NWS Sioux Falls office, storms are expected to sweep eastward before sunrise, bringing large hail and strong winds to areas ranging from Brookings to Watertown. Drivers on Interstate 29 may encounter unexpected downpours and reduced visibility, while rural areas may experience tree damage and scattered power outages.
Huron, Madison, and Marshall County residents should be prepared for rapidly developing storms during the early morning commute. Emergency officials advise residents to keep their phones charged and avoid travel during peak storm activity.
While the most severe threat arrives early, additional storm chances linger into Sunday afternoon and evening, so the risk of hail and lightning does not end with sunrise. Warnings and advisories may be issued with little notice.
