RAPID CITY, S.D. – A funnel cloud was reported Sunday evening, around 8:30 p.m., south of Black Gap near Rapid City, bringing attention to the dynamic weather patterns common in the Black Hills region of South Dakota.
Video taken by Rapid City resident Brad Heid.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Rapid City had issued warnings for possible severe thunderstorms across portions of South Dakota, including the Black Hills area, for Sunday evening. These storms carried threats of large hail and damaging winds, with an isolated tornado not being ruled out.
Funnel clouds are rotating columns of air that extend from the base of a thunderstorm but do not reach the ground. If they make ground contact, they are then classified as tornadoes. While the sighting caused concern among residents, there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.
The Black Hills are known for their rapidly changing and often severe weather conditions, particularly during the late spring and summer months. Residents in Rapid City and surrounding communities are advised to remain vigilant and stay informed on weather alerts issued by the NWS.
