Large Hail, 80 MPH Winds Target Northeast SD, Central MN Tonight — SevereWX

A cold front nearing southeast North Dakota is setting the stage for strong to severe thunderstorms across northeast South Dakota into west-central and central Minnesota this evening.

Development could kick off as early as 6-8 PM CDT near the triple ND-SD-MN border area, within the southern fringes of Severe Thunderstorm Watch #466. Additional storms may pop over northeast SD and west-central MN later, fueled by rich instability—around 4000 J/kg MLCAPE—and ample moisture with precipitable water over 1.8 inches. Effective shear near 25 knots supports organized storms capable of isolated to scattered severe impacts through late evening.

Primary Threats:

• Hail: Most probable 1.50-2.50 inches
• Wind: Most probable gusts 65-80 mph

The Storm Prediction Center pegs watch issuance odds at 60% as coverage and severity remain uncertain but promising. Mesoscale conditions look supportive if initiation occurs.

Keep an eye on radar for early storm cues. Residents should have a severe weather plan ready—secure outdoors, shelter in interior rooms away from windows, and monitor local NWS alerts via NOAA radio or apps.