Tornado Emergency! Watertown, SD Under Threat: Live Updates
Breaking: Tornado Warnings Issued Near Watertown, South Dakota
Multiple tornado warnings have been issued for Codington County, South Dakota, near Watertown, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Residents are urged to seek shelter immediately as severe weather threatens the area.
Update (7:45 p.m. CDT): A third tornado warning has been issued for Codington County, this time near Castlewood, and is expected to last until 8:15 p.m. CDT. This follows earlier warnings issued in the vicinity of Watertown.
The NWS Aberdeen tweeted about the Castlewood warning, urging residents to take cover.
While the extreme heat warning for the region is nearing its end, the NWS has outlined a timeline for potential storm development between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. in southeastern South Dakota.
NWS Sioux Falls indicates that the strongest storms are likely to remain over southwestern Minnesota but could extend westward into eastern South Dakota. Potential hazards include hail up to the size of ping pong balls and wind gusts reaching 70 mph.
Update (7:18 p.m. CDT): The second tornado warning for Codington County has been canceled as the immediate tornado threat has diminished, according to the NWS.
Update (7:00 p.m. CDT): A tornado warning remains in effect for portions of Codington County, including Watertown, until 7:30 p.m. CDT. This warning impacts approximately 2,200 people.
The NWS Aberdeen confirmed this ongoing threat via Twitter.
This latest warning comes less than an hour after a larger tornado was observed west of Watertown. Reports indicate that the initial tornado may have impacted at least one home, although this remains unconfirmed.
Authorities are still assessing the extent of any damage or injuries. Stay tuned for further updates as this dangerous situation unfolds.
Stay Informed
- Monitor local news and weather channels for the latest information.
- Heed warnings issued by the National Weather Service.
- Seek appropriate shelter immediately if a tornado warning is issued for your area.