PIERRE, S.D. — Gov. Larry Rhoden has requested a presidential major disaster declaration for eight South Dakota counties and the Crow Creek and Lower Brule reservations following severe storms, including a mini-derecho, tornado and historic windstorm, that struck from June 28 to July 3.
The storms caused an estimated $4.56 million in damage to roads, power systems, parks and public facilities, exceeding federal disaster assistance thresholds. Hyde County reported about $2.8 million in damage, while Beadle County reported nearly $900,000.
Wind gusts reached 131 mph in Highmore, a mark being evaluated for possible state and national records. If approved, the declaration would provide federal funding to help communities recover and support future hazard mitigation efforts.
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