South Dakota drought worsens; moderate drought expands in southeast and southwest

Drought conditions are worsening across South Dakota, with moderate drought now showing up in parts of the southeast and southwest, according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor update. About 29% of the state is rated abnormally dry, with 18.6% in moderate drought.

By Riley Harrington February 16, 2026 12:50 pm

South Dakota drought state climatologist Laura Edwards SDSU Extension drought conditions moisture levels summer weather moderate drought rainfall snow melt agriculture impact water resources weather outlook — Metro Services

MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Drought conditions are worsening across South Dakota, with moderate drought now indicated in parts of the state’s southeast and southwest, according to the latest update from the U.S. Drought Monitor.

As of the map released Feb. 12 and valid Feb. 10, the U.S. Drought Monitor shows moderate drought (D1) as the most severe category currently present in South Dakota.

The state’s drought summary shows 29% of South Dakota classified as abnormally dry (D0) and 18.6% in moderate drought (D1), with no areas listed in severe drought (D2) or worse.

The U.S. Drought Monitor is updated weekly and tracks drought intensity using categories ranging from abnormally dry (D0) to exceptional drought (D4).

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