Gov. Rhoden Requests Presidential Disaster Declaration after Historic Storms

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 27, 2026

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Requests Presidential Disaster Declaration after Historic Storms

PIERRE, S.D. - Today, Governor Larry Rhoden formally requested a presidential major disaster declaration for eight South Dakota counties and two reservations in response to a mini-derecho, a tornado, and a historic windstorm.

"I saw the devastation first-hand in both Highmore and Huron from these severe storms, and I had eight state agencies on the ground to assist in the responses," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "This request would provide several million dollars in federal funding to help these communities recover. I thank President Trump in advance for his consideration and his help."

Beadle, Bennett, Buffalo, Day, Hand, Hughes, Hyde, and Stanley Counties, along with the Crow Creek and Lower Brule Reservations, were included in the request. The request covers a storm system that went through South Dakota from June 28^th until July 3^rd. The damage estimate to public property is $4,564,928, exceeding federal thresholds for disaster assistance.

The weather produced sustained high winds and extreme gusts of 131 mph in Highmore that is being evaluated for both state and national records. The Storm Prediction Center is now classifying the June 29^th storm as a mini-derecho, which downed trees and power lines, damaged public infrastructure, and left residents without power for days.

Governor Rhoden previously declared a state of emergency on June 30, 2026, which started the disaster process by requesting technical assistance for a preliminary damage assessment by FEMA.

Damage included roads, power systems, parks, recreation areas, and public facilities, with Hyde and Beadle Counties experiencing particularly devastating impacts. Hyde County estimates $2.8 million in damages, and Beadle County accounts for almost $900,000. These two counties account for over 80% of the damages from the storm system.

If approved, the Presidential declaration would provide Public Assistance funding for repairs at a cost share of 75% federal, 10% state, and 15% local. In addition, it would make Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding available in the future.

A copy of the Executive Order is available here. A copy of the request to the President is available here. A copy of the Preliminary Damage Assessment by county and damage type is available here.

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