South Dakota Emergency Preparedness

Based on 61 FEMA disaster declarations, here is everything you need to know about preparing for emergencies in South Dakota.

52
Risk Score
High

Top Threats in South Dakota

Severe Storm (32 declarations)
High
Tornado (1 declarations)
Low
Flood (21 declarations)
Moderate
Winter Storm (2 declarations)
Low

FEMA Disaster History

South Dakota has had 61 federal disaster declarations since tracking began.

Declarations by Type

Severe Storm 32
Flood 21
Snowstorm 4
Winter Storm 2
Biological 1
Tornado 1

Recent Declarations

Severe Storm And Flooding 2025-09-11
Severe Storm, Straight-Line Winds, And Flooding 2024-11-01
Severe Storms, Straight-Line Winds, And Flooding 2024-08-15
Flooding 2023-07-06
Severe Winter Storms And Snowstorm 2023-02-27

Preparedness Tips for South Dakota

  • Trim trees and remove dead branches that could fall on your home
  • Have a battery-powered weather radio for severe storm alerts
  • Keep flashlights and extra batteries in multiple rooms
  • Know the difference between a watch (conditions possible) and a warning (happening now)

Emergency Contacts

South Dakota Office of Emergency Management

605-773-3231

Visit Website →

Recommended Gear

Emergency Radio

Severe storm warnings save lives when power is out

Generator

Severe storms frequently cause extended power outages

First Aid Kit

Storm damage can cause injuries when help is delayed

Get Your Preparedness Checklist

Customized for South Dakota's top threats

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