Dangerous Storms Heading for South Dakota: What You Need to Know Before 3 PM!

Heads up, Sioux Falls and nearby areas — today’s weather could get rough.
The National Weather Service is sounding the alarm about a strong storm system expected to roll through this afternoon, and it’s packing a punch.

Between 3:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. today (Monday, April 28, 2025), we could see hail as big as hen eggs and wind gusts reaching 70 miles per hour. That’s definitely strong enough to cause real damage, so it’s a good idea to be ready.

What’s Coming?

Here’s what the weather experts are saying we need to watch for:

• Giant Hail:
  Expect hail big enough to shatter car windows, dent roofs, and destroy gardens. It’s serious — don’t get caught outside if it starts coming down.

• Damaging Winds:
  Gusts could hit 70 mph or more. That’s strong enough to knock down trees, rip off branches, and take out power lines.

• Tornado Possibility:
  While tornadoes aren’t guaranteed, the atmosphere is unstable enough that one or two could spin up unexpectedly.

Basically, we’re in for an afternoon where the weather could change fast and get dangerous quickly.

Who Should Be Most Concerned?

If you live in Sioux Falls or anywhere near the I-29 corridor, you’re right in the zone where these storms could hit hardest.
But even if you’re outside of town a little ways, it’s smart to stay alert — storms don’t always follow exact paths.

How You Can Prepare

• Stay Alert:
  Make sure your phone is fully charged and get your weather apps or radios ready. You’ll want updates as soon as they come out.

• Protect Your Stuff:
  Move your car into a garage or under shelter if you can. Bring in outdoor furniture, grills, or anything that could blow around.

• Get Your Emergency Supplies Together:
  Flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, snacks, and a first aid kit can make a big difference if the power goes out.

• Limit Driving:
  If you don’t absolutely have to be on the road this evening, it’s best to stay home and off the highways.

Today’s storms could be fast, fierce, and dangerous.
Even if you’re used to Midwest weather, don’t take this lightly. A few simple steps now can help you stay safe and avoid major problems later.