Climate and Weather

Climate and weather impact the daily lives and livelihoods of all South Dakotans. Climate extremes, like flood and drought, and weather events, like blizzards and thunderstorms, have an impact on farms, rural communities and cities across the state. SDSU Extension has information and resources to keep South Dakotans informed and to help prepare for climate and weather extremes in all seasons of the year.

Our Experts

Professional headshot of Laura Edwards

Laura Edwards

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Resources by Topic

Color-coded precipitation outlook map of the United States.

Forecasts and Outlooks

View the latest precipitation, temperature and climate trends with analysis from our state climatologist.

Color-coded drought monitor map of South Dakota. As of Aug. 31, Northwest and North Central South Dakota arefacing extreme drought, while the rest of the state is under abnormally dry to severe drought conditions. A Small portion of the northeast has adequate moisture.

Drought

Stay ahead of drought impacts with timely climate updates, business insights and research-tested management tips.

Green shield icon above an illustration of a flooded home.

Flood

View resources to prepare for and recover from flood situations in farms, businesses, homes and communities.

Additional Resources

Additional climate and weather information can be found at the Mesonet at SDState, National Weather Service, NOAA Climate Prediction Center and United States Drought Monitor websites.

Related Topics

Climate, Drought: Business/Economics, Drought: Climate, Drought: Crops, Drought: Gardening and Landscaping, Drought: Home and Community, Drought: Livestock, Drought: Range and Land Management

Related Content

ebcam view of the Edgemont mesonet station.

Climate, Weather and Fire/Fuels Update: October 31, 2022

The last week of October had a temperature gradient from southwest to northeast. Precipitation was scarce yet again, and drought conditions continued to hold steady or worsen over South Dakota.

Two angus crossbred calves.

Sell the Feeder Calf, or Create a Yearling?

Fall brings many weaning and selling time decisions for cattle operations. Learn some expert tips for evaluating your current situation and making informed management decisions given the price of calves, feed, and the futures market.

Color-coded map of South Dakota indicating the fiftieth percentile, for first fall occurrence of 32 degrees Fahrenheit. For assistance reading this graphic and data set, please call SDSU Extension at 605-688-4792.

First Fall Frost Dates

The first fall frost often marks the end of the growing season, and many garden plants may not survive the freezing temperatures. Learn about some available tools we can use to predict the first fall frost dates around the state.