People living in Sioux Falls and nearby parts of eastern South Dakota should be ready for strong thunderstorms early Sunday morning. The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned that storms could bring hail as big as ping-pong balls and winds blowing up to 65 mph. The most dangerous time for these storms will be between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m., especially in areas north of Highway 14.
Areas Most at Risk
According to the NWS office in Sioux Falls, the worst of the weather is expected in a stretch from Brookings to Watertown, which lies directly in the risk zone. Here’s what people in these areas should be prepared for:
Large hail that could damage cars, roofs, and crops
Very strong winds that might bring down trees or power lines
Heavy rainfall leading to poor visibility on roads
Scattered power outages, especially in rural areas
People travelling on Interstate 29 early in the morning may run into sudden downpours and reduced visibility, so it’s better to avoid driving during storm hours if possible.
Storm Alerts for Huron, Madison, and Marshall County
Residents in Huron, Madison, and Marshall County should stay alert, as storms could develop quickly during early morning hours. These areas may experience stormy conditions during the morning commute, so it’s important to check the weather before leaving home.
Important Safety Tips
Here are some simple ways to stay safe and prepared:
Charge your phone Saturday night in case of power cuts
Keep a flashlight and battery-powered radio handy
Avoid unnecessary travel between 4 a.m. and 8 a.m.
Park vehicles in a garage or sheltered area to protect them from hail
Stay indoors during the storm and away from windows
Storms May Continue Into the Afternoon
Even after the main storm system passes by 8 a.m., there’s still a chance of more thunderstorms developing later in the day. So, the risk doesn’t end with sunrise. Hail, lightning, and strong winds could return in the afternoon and evening.
Weather alerts could be issued quickly, so make sure your phone has emergency notifications turned on and check trusted weather apps or the NWS website for updates.
Early Sunday in Sioux Falls and across eastern South Dakota could bring severe weather, with damaging winds and large hail expected before most people even wake up. Make sure to take precautions Saturday night so you’re not caught off guard in the morning. Stay safe, stay informed, and don’t take any chances if a warning is issued in your area.
