The National Weather Service Grassland Fire Danger Index shows conditions in the “very high” category today (March 15, 2024) in much of central and most of eastern South Dakota. The north central and northwestern parts of the state are in the “extreme” fire danger category.
State Fire Weather Meteorologist Dr. Darren Clabo says in the central and western parts of South Dakota, it’s the “shoulder fire season.”
Clabo says prime grassland fire season on the eastern side of the state is now (March) through April.
Clabo says very low moisture content of grasses and other organic material on the ground mean that fires will start easily, spread rapidly and show erratic behavior.
The Grassland Fire Danger Index is based on a mathematical formula that uses temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and the “greenness” of the plant material– calling curing (cure-ing). Cured grasses contain less moisture and typically burn much more efficiently than green grasses.
PROJECTED grassland fire danger index map for March 16, 2024.
Infographic credit National Weather Service.
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