Today marks the 54th anniversary of the Rapid City Flood, one of the deadliest flood disasters in American history.
On June 9, 1972, torrential rains caused Rapid Creek to overflow its banks, inundating large portions of Rapid City and the surrounding Black Hills. The disaster claimed 238 lives and caused more than $160 million in damage—an amount that would exceed $1 billion when adjusted for inflation in 2026.
To help educate future generations, Rapid City officials have set up exhibits highlighting the disaster and its aftermath.
A permanent display detailing the 1972 flood is located on the second floor of City Hall near the public works entrance. A second, temporary exhibit is currently on display in the building’s main lobby.
Additional flood-related exhibits can be found at the Journey Museum and the Rapid City Public Library, where survivors are encouraged to share their stories and personal memories of the tragedy.
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