Overnight Storms Bring 90 MPH Winds, Tree Damage, and a Confirmed Tornado Near Henry

A powerful tornado tears through the countryside, lifting debris and a house into the air, while dark storm clouds gather ominously in the sky, emphasizing the dramatic and destructive force of nature. (Canva)

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Severe thunderstorms swept across northeast South Dakota early Wednesday morning, producing widespread wind damage, downed trees, and a confirmed tornado near Henry, according to preliminary reports from the National Weather Service in Aberdeen.

The storms intensified shortly after midnight, tracking east across Codington, Hamlin, and Deuel counties. Multiple trained spotters, storm chasers, and automated weather stations reported damaging winds and debris.

At 12:06 a.m., the National Weather Service received a report of a tornado near Henry in Codington County. The report came from an Emergency Manager. No additional details on damage or path length were included in the preliminary release.

The NWS will determine the tornado’s rating and full track after completing a storm survey.

South Dakota's Local Voice: Tune into Northeast Radio for 24/7 local news, talk, and music in Watertown, SD and surrounding regions. Stream live and stay updated with Steve Jurrens and the team. Visit northeastradiosd.com or scan the QR code for more.

Widespread Wind Damage Across the Region

Hamlin County

·         12:33 a.m. — 2 SSW Claremont Colony A trained spotter reported multiple irrigation pivots damaged. Time estimated by radar.

·         1:35 a.m. — 3 N Poinsett Colony A storm chaser reported significant tree damage along 465th Avenue.

Deuel County

·         12:44 a.m. — 6 S Goodwin Photos and video showed multiple large trees snapped or uprooted near 179th Street and 468th Avenue. Part of 179th Street was impassable due to debris.

·         12:45 a.m. — 3 S Goodwin (Bemis) A trained spotter reported roofing and siding damage to a home.

·         12:45 a.m. — 6 W Clear Lake Photos showed trees down at 470th Avenue and SD Highway 22.

·         12:48 a.m. — 1 S Clear Lake A photo confirmed a tree down in Clear Lake.

·         12:59 a.m. — Tunerville The SDDOT Mesonet station near Altamont recorded a 90 mph wind gust.

·         1:12 a.m. — Astoria A trained spotter reported numerous branches down and several trees split or fallen.

What Happens Next

The National Weather Service will continue reviewing radar data, storm reports, and damage photos. Additional updates — including the tornado’s rating — are expected after survey teams complete their assessments.

Northeast Radio SD will update this story as new information becomes available.