PIERRE, S.D. – — Officials are urging South Dakotans to stay diligent as critical fire danger threatens the state into the weekend.
The lack of typical snow this time of year, combined with strong winds, above normal temperatures, dry air and dry fuels have created conditions for rapid fire spread.
Southwestern, south central and southeastern areas are under a very-high to extreme fire danger through today.
A grassland fire danger alert remains in effect for most of South Dakota. The National Weather Service advises people not to discard cigarettes outside and not to burn yard debris, while folks should use caution if operating outdoor equipment.