2014 Big Sioux River Flood & Wessington Springs Tornado

Beginning June 13 through June 20, 2014, a very slow moving upper level low pressure system allowed a series of significant weather systems to affect South Dakota. Multiple stationary boundaries stalled across the state, which resulted in repeated storm formation and associated hazards including hail, high winds, tornadoes, excessive rainfall, flooding and lightning. Twenty-six daily precipitation records were broken throughout the state, nine of which were 100 years or more old. This excessive rainfall resulted in flash flooding of streets, small creeks and streams and major flooding along the Big Sioux River. Several significant tornadoes occurred as well. The highest tornado damage was found just outside of Alpena in Jerauld County and was rated at an EF-4 with winds estimated at 166-200mph. The tornado that struck the town of Wessington Springs was rated an EF-2.