The sun is finally starting to shine and the weather is warming up in Sioux Falls and around the Sioux Empire. That's the good news. The not-so-great news? Severe weather season is just around the corner.

The weather experts at the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls do a phenomenal job keeping residents up to date with the latest storm systems. To help everyone stay informed about the Sioux Empire weather, the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls annually celebrates Severe Weather Awareness Week. This year, Severe Weather Awareness Week begins on Monday, April 17th through Friday, April 21st.

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Part of this week's activities will include running a community-wide tornado drill. The city-wide tornado drill will take place on Wednesday morning, April 19th at 10 AM. According to a recent press release, city officials are encouraging "residents, schools, and businesses to practice their severe weather plans at that time. The warning will be indicated by outdoor warning sirens."

Here is the rundown of the drill schedule this Wednesday morning:

Drill Schedule:

  • Tornado Watch Issued           10 AM
  • Tornado Warning Issued        10:15 AM
  • End of Drill                              10:30 AM

Living in the Midwest, you never know what Mother Nature will bring. So if you're new to Sioux Falls and the Midwest, what do you do if there is a tornado? The City of Sioux Falls has a great Emergency Management website resource about the severe weather in our area and how to prepare for those storms. My co-worker and friend Danny V. even has a great article about tornadoes and items you should keep handy as you ride out the storm.

You can never be too prepared during tornado season! Remember to follow weather updates with Dakota News Now First Alert Weather Team and the team at the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls.

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10 Wild South Dakota Snowstorms

Even though snow is blanketing the Sioux Empire, some snowstorms still do not compare to these ten dreadful snowstorms that hit South Dakota.

Only In Your State highlighted ten snowstorms in South Dakota as a reminder for people to always be aware of the road during the winter. South Dakotans are well aware of the fact that the state’s winters can be harsh which is why it is always a good idea to plan ahead and prepare for the worst.

Do you remember any major snowstorms that hit South Dakota?

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