Excessive Heat and Severe Storms Threaten Midwest This Week 8/25

Photo byNational Weather Service

Extreme Heat and Thunderstorm Risks Set to Impact South Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota

Byline: Sioux Falls — Issued by the National Weather Service at 4:15 AM CDT on Sunday, August 25, 2024.

SIOUX FALLS – Residents across northwest Iowa, southwest Minnesota, northeast Nebraska, and southeast South Dakota should brace for extreme weather conditions as an Excessive Heat Warning and Heat Advisory are in effect, while severe thunderstorms loom in the forecast for Monday. The National Weather Service has warned of dangerously high heat indices reaching up to 110 degrees, accompanied by the potential for large hail, damaging winds, and even tornadoes during the severe weather threat.

Excessive Heat Warning in Effect Today

The Excessive Heat Warning is in place from 1 PM to 8 PM CDT today, with heat indices across the affected regions expected to soar to 110 degrees. Residents are urged to take precautions, including staying hydrated, remaining indoors in air-conditioned environments, and avoiding strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke pose significant risks during these high-temperature events.

Heat Advisory Continues Into Monday

The heat is not expected to subside immediately, with a Heat Advisory issued for Monday. The affected areas, including portions of northwest and west-central Iowa, southwest Minnesota, northeast Nebraska, and east-central and southeast South Dakota, will experience heat indices climbing up to 106 degrees during the afternoon hours.

Severe Thunderstorm Threat Monday Afternoon

As the heat intensifies, the risk of severe thunderstorms will increase, particularly from Monday afternoon into Monday night. The storm system could bring large hail, damaging winds, and the potential for tornadoes, primarily along and north of Interstate 90. The most intense storm activity is expected between 4 PM Monday and 2 AM Tuesday, with severe weather risks extending across the region.

Spotter Activation Expected

With the increased risk of severe weather, SKYWARN spotter activation may be necessary late Monday afternoon and into the night. Spotters are urged to report any instances of hail, strong winds, and tornadoes to the National Weather Service to assist in monitoring the severity of the storm activity.

Stay Updated

Weather Watches, Warnings & Advisories are frequently updated by the National Weather Service. Please look for updates to this report from your local news channels and NOAA All Hazards.

Please follow Thumbwind Publications for more local weather and news updates.