Severe thunderstorms are expected to hit Sioux Falls and central South Dakota Friday evening, with damaging winds, large hail, and a low-end tornado risk. These storms will move through the area from 7 p.m. Friday to 2 a.m. Saturday, causing potential disruptions overnight.
Timing and Threat Areas
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, the greatest risk for severe weather begins around 5 p.m. Friday in central counties like Chamberlain and Mitchell. The threat will intensify towards the I-29 corridor, including Sioux Falls and Yankton, by midnight. The storms could bring hail up to two inches in diameter and wind gusts up to 70 mph. Though the storms are expected to weaken by 2 a.m. Saturday, they could still impact parts of southwest Minnesota.
Additional Weather Risks
By Saturday, conditions will shift to dangerously hot and humid weather, with heat index values nearing 100°F across much of southeastern South Dakota. Afternoon storms may redevelop, especially near Yankton and Le Mars, and could bring renewed severe weather risks into Saturday evening.
Safety Tips
Residents are urged to take the following precautions:
Secure outdoor items to prevent damage from strong winds.
Ensure you have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, such as a NOAA weather radio or a weather app on your phone.
Remain weather-aware if traveling, especially along the I-29 or I-90 corridors, as storms could cause significant travel disruptions.
This marks the region’s most significant severe weather threat since early June.
Weekend Outlook
Scattered storms will continue into Sunday, but the severe threat will shift south and weaken as the day progresses.
