Extreme CAPE Superfuels SD MCS for 90 MPH Gusts, Hail into Minnesota-Iowa — SevereWX

A potent convective cluster racing eastward from southeast South Dakota is set to unleash severe weather across southwest/south-central Minnesota and northwest/north-central Iowa this evening.

The Storm Prediction Center highlights a 95% chance of issuing a Severe Thunderstorm Watch to cover the hazards. Recent gusts have already hit 70 mph in Douglas County, SD, with echo tops now surging near the line's center—signaling likely further intensification.

Key threats:

• Wind gusts to 90 mph (most probable 75-90 mph)
• Hail up to 1.25 inches

Abundant low-level moisture (dewpoints upper 70s to low 80s) combines with extreme instability exceeding 3500 J/kg MLCAPE downstream, priming the line for damaging downbursts. The cluster's steady 35 kt motion keeps it organized as it barrels into richer thermodynamics.

Timeline: Threats peak from around 10 PM to 2 AM CDT (Jul 25-26, 2026), per SPC Mesoscale Discussion 1736.

Stay prepared: Monitor updates via local NWS offices (MPX, DMX, FSD). Secure outdoor items, charge devices, enable weather alerts on your phone, and know your safe spot indoors away from windows. Severe storms move fast—act early to protect life and property.