RAPID CITY, South Dakota – An air pollution alert for blowing dust has been issued for the area of Rapid City west of the Gap, as strong northwest winds are expected to suspend fine dust in the air, resulting in poor air quality.
The alert is in effect from 8 p.m. Monday night tonight through 2 p.m Tuesday.
The National Weather Service, in collaboration with the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, is warning residents about northwest winds expected to reach 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph. These gusty conditions are the cause of the suspended dust.
The primary impact of the high winds will be a reduction in air quality due to the fine dust. Dust storms, particularly those caused by high winds in the arid prairie land surrounding the Black Hills, are a recurring weather concern in the Rapid City area.
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources monitors air quality in Rapid City for various pollutants, including particulate matter or dust, and issues alerts when conditions pose a potential health risk.
Residents in the affected area are advised to take precautions to minimize exposure to the dust and poor air quality.
