Hurricanes risk in South Dakota

Hurricane Risk in South Dakota: What to Expect

South Dakota is located in the Midwest, far from the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, so it does not experience direct hurricane landfalls. The state is rated Level 1 of 5 for hurricane risk by HomeRiskMap, indicating a very low overall threat. However, the remnants of tropical storms and hurricanes can occasionally reach South Dakota after making landfall hundreds of miles away. These systems typically weaken to tropical depressions or remnant low-pressure areas, but they can still carry large amounts of moisture that produce heavy rainfall and flash flooding.

The hurricane season in the Atlantic runs from June 1 to November 30, and the eastern Pacific season runs from May 15 to November 30. Remnants from either basin can affect South Dakota, most commonly in late summer and early fall. The greatest risk is not from wind but from water: slow-moving remnant systems can stall over the region and drop several inches of rain in a short time.

Geographically, all of South Dakota is inland, so storm surge and direct coastal impacts are not a concern. The areas most vulnerable to hurricane-related flooding are those near rivers, streams, and low-lying valleys. The Black Hills and other hilly regions can also experience rapid runoff and flash flooding when heavy rain falls on steep terrain. Communities along the Missouri River and its tributaries, as well as smaller creeks and drainage basins, should be aware of the potential for flooding from remnant tropical moisture.

How It Affects Homes

Because direct hurricane conditions are extremely rare in South Dakota, the primary threat to homes comes from heavy rain and flooding associated with remnant tropical systems. Floodwaters can enter basements, crawl spaces, and ground floors, causing structural damage, ruining belongings, and promoting mold growth. Even a few inches of water can be costly to remediate.

Wind damage from remnant storms is possible but usually much weaker than what coastal areas experience. Severe thunderstorms, which can be embedded in remnant systems, may produce damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes. These events can tear off shingles, break windows, and down trees, leading to additional property damage.

From an insurance perspective, standard homeowners policies typically cover wind damage and rain damage that enters through a storm-created opening (like a broken window). However, flood damage is almost never covered by standard homeowners insurance. To protect against flooding, homeowners need a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. It's important to note that there is usually a 30-day waiting period before a new flood policy takes effect, so don't wait until a storm is forecast.

Hurricane deductibles, which are common in coastal states, generally do not apply in South Dakota because the state is not a named-storm wind zone. Still, review your policy to understand exactly what is covered and what is not.

How to Prepare Your Home

Even though the hurricane risk is low, preparing for heavy rain and flooding is smart. Many of the steps below also help with other severe weather common in South Dakota, such as thunderstorms and spring flooding.

• Clear gutters and downspouts: Remove leaves and debris so rainwater can flow away from your roof and foundation.
• Grade your yard: Ensure the ground slopes away from your home's foundation for at least 6 feet. This helps prevent water from pooling near the base of your house.
• Install a sump pump with battery backup: If you have a basement, a sump pump can remove water that accumulates. A battery backup keeps it working during power outages.
• Seal cracks and openings: Use hydraulic cement or polyurethane sealant to fill cracks in foundation walls and floors. Install covers over basement window wells.
• Consider flood insurance: Talk to your insurance agent about an NFIP policy or private flood insurance. Remember the 30-day waiting period.
• Secure outdoor items: Bring in or tie down patio furniture, grills, and trash cans. Trim dead branches from trees to reduce the risk of them falling on your home.
• Create an emergency kit: Include water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, medications, and copies of important documents. Ready.gov has a full checklist.
• Sign up for alerts: Register for local emergency notifications through your county or the South Dakota Office of Emergency Management. Follow the National Weather Service for flood watches and warnings.
• Know your evacuation route: If you live near a river or in a flood-prone area, plan where you would go if flooding occurs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a hurricane actually hit South Dakota?

No. Hurricanes require warm ocean water to form and sustain their strength. By the time a tropical system reaches South Dakota, it has been over land for a long time and has weakened to a tropical depression or remnant low. It is extremely rare for even a tropical storm to reach South Dakota. However, the remnants can still bring heavy rain and flooding, which is the main concern.

Does homeowners insurance cover hurricane damage in South Dakota?

Standard homeowners insurance typically covers wind damage and rain damage that enters through a storm-created opening, but it does not cover flood damage. Since South Dakota is not a coastal state, hurricane-specific deductibles usually do not apply. If you want protection against flooding from remnant storms, you need a separate flood insurance policy. Check with your agent about what your policy includes.

What is the biggest hurricane-related risk for homes in South Dakota?

The biggest risk is inland flooding from heavy rainfall. Remnant tropical systems can produce slow-moving downpours that overwhelm drainage systems and cause rivers and streams to overflow. Floodwaters can damage foundations, basements, and belongings, and lead to mold. Preparing your home for flooding is the most effective way to reduce your risk.

Official Resources

• South Dakota Office of Emergency Management
• NOAA National Hurricane Center
• Ready.gov – Hurricanes
• FEMA Hurricane Preparedness