Drought

Drought conditions are persisting across South Dakota.

The latest Drought Monitor shows the entirety of South Dakota is facing some degree of dryness.

The Black Hills is experiencing dryness levels unlike anything it’s seen in a decade. Now fire and forest officials have one message – take the warnings seriously.

September was historically dry in South Dakota. Now, weather watchers are hoping for some precipitation before the ground freezes for the winter.

In a reversal from this time last year, West River is the one experiencing drought, while those in East River remain saturated following historic rains and flooding.

Recent rainfall has drastically improved South Dakota’s outlook on the Drought Monitor.

As the state tangles with on-again, off-again drought, there are indications conditions are improving going into 2024. However, the state isn’t out of the woods just yet.

After a few dry years in cattle country, the states producers are finally getting some relief – but there’s still a hole to dig out of.

Recent heavy rains are resulting in improved drought conditions across South Dakota.

Darren Clabo, Ph.D., is our state fire meteorologist. He discusses which areas of the state could burn amidst rising temperatures and dry conditions.