Scattered thunderstorms are expected to intensify as they move into eastern South Dakota Thursday morning, bringing the potential for hazardous weather including hail up to half-dollar size and wind gusts near 70 mph. The most intense storm activity is likely to occur between 7 a.m. and noon, making for a dangerous start to the day. According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, storms will continue to spread east throughout the day, with the greatest severe weather threat occurring late Thursday night into the early morning hours.
Residents of Minnehaha, Lincoln, and surrounding counties should be prepared for sudden downpours, reduced visibility, and the possibility of brief tornadoes. The morning commute may be affected, particularly along Interstate 90 and U.S. Highway 81, where travelers should allow extra time and keep an eye on road conditions. As these storms move through, outdoor items should be secured, and it’s recommended that residents keep their phones charged in case of power outages.
After Thursday’s storms, hot and humid weather will settle in, with heat index values nearing 100°F on both Friday and Saturday, particularly to the south of Sioux Falls. While temperatures will remain in the upper 80s and 90s, another round of thunderstorms could return Friday night, though the timing and severity remain uncertain.
Here’s the detailed five-day forecast for Sioux Falls:
Thursday: Chance of thunderstorms early, then clearing. High 87°F, low 72°F.
Friday: Mostly sunny, hot. High 90°F, low 72°F.
Saturday: Mostly sunny, very warm. High 90°F, low 72°F.
Sunday: Mostly sunny. High 88°F, low 68°F.
Monday: Mostly sunny. High 83°F, low 66°F.
