A severe thunderstorm is set to hit Southeast South Dakota, with a significant storm system moving through the area late Friday night into early Saturday morning. The storm could bring powerful winds and large hail, making it crucial for residents to stay prepared.
Areas Affected by the Severe Thunderstorm Watch
The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for several counties in Southeast South Dakota, including Davison, Yankton, and Minnehaha.
The storm is expected to bring damaging winds of up to 80 mph and large hail, with the most dangerous conditions occurring between 11 p.m. on Friday and 3 a.m. on Saturday.
The weather system is making its way toward key highways like I-90 and Highway 81, which means that communities from Mitchell to Sioux Falls are in the storm’s path. Residents in these areas should expect sudden and significant weather changes.
What to Expect During the Storm
The thunderstorms are likely to cause a number of hazards. High winds and large hail could lead to power outages, downed trees, and flying debris. For people in areas such as campgrounds or mobile home parks, the risk is especially high as these locations are more vulnerable to damage from the storms.
Emergency officials recommend staying indoors during the storm, avoiding travel, and keeping emergency alerts active to stay informed about any updates or warnings. The strong winds overnight could also bring additional challenges, including the potential for scattered damage in affected areas.
What You Should Do
Residents of the affected areas should be prepared for possible disruptions, including power outages and hazardous driving conditions. Make sure to secure outdoor items that could be blown away and ensure that your emergency kits are stocked. It’s a good idea to stay updated on the weather situation by following local news and the National Weather Service for the latest alerts.
This severe weather event marks one of the biggest overnight wind threats of the season, so it’s essential to stay on alert until Saturday morning.
