Severe Weather Threat Across South Dakota

Strong to severe storms are expected Tuesday afternoon and evening, with large hail, damaging winds, and even a few tornadoes possible across parts of the region. [1]

Tornado Watch Covers Dozens of Counties

The National Weather Service issued Tornado Watch 271, effective until 11 PM CDT, covering 16 counties across central, east central, and south central South Dakota. [3] Counties under the watch include Beadle, Brookings, Kingsbury, Lake, Miner, Sanborn, Aurora, Brule, Charles Mix, Douglas, Gregory, and several others. [5]

The watch was issued June 3 at 4:02 PM CDT by NWS Sioux Falls and remained in effect through the evening hours. [5]

Damaging Wind Gusts and Storm Reports

Severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from near Fedora to near Fulton to 9 miles northwest of Ethan, moving east at 45 mph. [4] The primary hazard from these storms was 70 mph wind gusts, with impacts including considerable tree damage and likely damage to mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings. [4]

Tracking Tools and Live Reports

Continuously updated U.S. tornado reports, wind storm reports, and hail storm reports are being tracked in real time, with information available about specific locations and descriptions of each reported event. [2] National Weather Service storm report maps also provide location-level details for each severe weather incident as conditions develop. [9]

What to Watch Next

With multiple counties under an active tornado watch and fast-moving storm cells pushing east at 45 mph, [4] conditions are evolving quickly. Residents in affected areas should avoid driving through flooded roads and rely on official national and local weather service agency websites, radio, and TV for critical decisions. [4] Check the forecast for your city to stay ahead of any severe weather heading your way.