More than 70% of South Dakota remains abnormally dry or in drought, according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor released Thursday.
While overall conditions improved slightly following rains, about 50% of the state is experiencing moderate drought or worse, with nearly 37% classified as severe drought or higher. Extreme drought covers 9.4% of South Dakota, mainly in the southwest and south‑central regions. No areas are listed in exceptional drought.
Conditions have worsened sharply since the start of the year, when only about 7% of the state was in moderate drought or worse. While parts of eastern South Dakota remain drought‑free, large areas are still abnormally dry, raising concerns as the growing and fire seasons begin.
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