Elevated Fire Danger and Gusty Winds Expected Today

Residents in Lincoln, Lyon, Murray, Cottonwood, and Pipestone counties in Minnesota, and Kingsbury, Brookings, Lake, and Moody counties in South Dakota should prepare for strong winds and elevated fire danger today, October 10. The National Weather Service in Sioux Falls has issued a Special Weather Statement, effective from 2:46 AM CDT and expiring at 7:00 PM CDT.

South winds are forecast to gust as high as 40 to 45 mph, developing quickly by mid to late morning. While wind speeds will ease across east-central South Dakota by mid-afternoon, stronger gusts will persist in southwest Minnesota through sunset. These winds, combined with near-record warmth and humidity as low as 25 to 35 percent, will create elevated fire weather concerns.

Grassland fire danger will reach the High category, with potentially higher danger in cured croplands and grasses. The public is advised to avoid outdoor burning and exercise extreme caution with equipment in dry crops, as rapid fire spread is possible. Additionally, winds exceeding 40 mph may lead to areas of blowing dust, which could reduce visibility and air quality. No outdoor burning is recommended today.