Highmore Storm Cleanup Continues After 131-MPH Winds; Governor Rhoden Declares Emergency
- Steve Jurrens
- Jul 1
- 3 min read
Northeast Radio SD News – Highmore, SD - State and local crews are continuing round‑the‑clock cleanup after a destructive thunderstorm packing 131‑mph straight‑line winds tore through Highmore early Monday morning, leaving widespread damage across the community and knocking out power citywide.
Governor Larry Rhoden visited Highmore shortly after the storm to assess the destruction and meet with responders. He ordered multiple state agencies to assist with debris removal, perimeter security, and emergency coordination as the town works to reopen blocked streets and restore essential services.
“South Dakota might be a small state, but we are mighty,” Rhoden said. “Responders and volunteers immediately began assessing damage and starting recovery. That’s what South Dakotans do — we show up for our neighbors, and we will continue to show up to help Highmore get back on its feet.”
Widespread Damage Across Highmore
The storm struck around 6 a.m. on June 29, producing hurricane‑force winds that:
· Uprooted trees and snapped power poles
· Tore roofs from homes and businesses
· Overturned vehicles
· Bent wind turbines and tower structures
· Left many streets impassable with debris
Only minor injuries have been reported.
A no‑travel order remains in effect for Highmore, with access restricted to emergency personnel due to downed power lines and hazardous debris.
State Agencies Activated
Local officials established an emergency operations center to coordinate response efforts. Governor Rhoden deployed:
· South Dakota Highway Patrol
· Department of Transportation
· South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks
· Nine DOC inmates trained for disaster response
Volunteers from across the region have also arrived to help clear debris and provide food and water to displaced residents and responders.
State of Emergency Declared
On Tuesday, Governor Rhoden formally declared a state of emergency for counties impacted by the June 29 storms, enabling the state to streamline debris‑removal efforts and access additional resources.
“South Dakotans are tough, and they step up to support one another in difficult times like these,” Rhoden said. “By declaring a disaster, we can better support local response efforts and help our state rebuild.”
The declaration immediately activated emergency authorities under state law. A written proclamation will follow.
Six state agencies — including 23 DOC inmates certified for storm cleanup — are currently assisting communities across central South Dakota. Local governments are still assessing total damage and recovery costs. It remains too early to determine whether the event will meet federal thresholds for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration through FEMA.
DOC Inmates Prepared for Summer Storm Response
The Department of Corrections recently expanded its disaster‑response program, certifying inmates at facilities in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Springfield, Yankton, and Pierre to assist with storm cleanup statewide.
DOC Secretary Nick Lamb said the program provides meaningful work for inmates while saving taxpayer dollars and helping communities recover faster.
“This type of training and work is not only a service to our local communities, but it is also a rewarding purpose for our offenders on the path to rehabilitation,” Lamb said.
Recovery Continues
Highmore officials expect cleanup and power restoration to take time as crews work through extensive debris and infrastructure damage. Additional state resources may be requested as assessments continue.
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