South Dakota Storms Demand Federal Aid | Pierre News

Governor Larry Rhoden is pushing for a major federal disaster declaration for eight central South Dakota counties after catastrophic storms hit on June 29th, causing widespread destruction across Hughes, Stanley, Hyde, and other areas—including reservations. Already under a state of emergency, the damage now meets federal thresholds: over $4.5 million in public property losses, with Hyde and Beadle counties alone accounting for 80% of the total. The storms were a mini-derecho, packing 131 mph winds that carved a 5-mile-wide, 50-mile-long path of devastation. If approved, federal aid would cover 75% of costs, with state and local governments splitting the rest—potentially unlocking future hazard mitigation funding as communities begin the long cleanup. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/5375141051c45031