South Dakota weather, particularly winter weather in the Black Hills, can certainly be fickle, but on January 22, 1943 wild temperature swings set a world record in Spearfish, South Dakota.

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So, do you remember the winter of 1943? Were you in Spearfish, South Dakota at the time? We’d love to hear your stories about this incredible weather day!

South Dakota winters can be tough, and for some reason, no one speaks about it. To prove our point, here are a few things no one tells you about surviving winter in South Dakota.

Looking for a way to combat the unpredictable South Dakota weather? Pay a visit to The North Face, where you’ll find an array of outerwear gear that’s sure to suit your needs – no matter the weather.

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Spearfish, South Dakota

What are the best sites and attractions in the Black Hills?

Spearfish, South Dakota is just one of the well known places in the Black Hills. Here are some other popular sites and attractions in the Black Hills:

  • Mount Rushmore National Memorial: This iconic monument features the carved faces of four U.S. presidents (George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln) and is a must-visit landmark in the Black Hills.
  • Crazy Horse Memorial: Still under construction, this colossal sculpture honors the famous Lakota Sioux leader Crazy Horse. It's one of the largest mountain carvings in the world and offers a visitor center and museum.
  • Custer State Park: This expansive state park is known for its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities. You can see herds of bison, explore scenic drives like the Wildlife Loop Road, and hike numerous trails.

 

What are the worst storms in South Dakota history?

South Dakota weather can be unpredictable, and, in rare cases, history-making. Here are some of the worst storms in South Dakota history:

  • The Children's Blizzard of 1888: Dubbed one of the deadliest blizzards in South Dakota's history, this storm, which struck on January 12, 1888, brought with it a sudden drop in temperature and fierce blizzard conditions. Many people were caught off guard, resulting in numerous fatalities, especially among schoolchildren who were caught by surprise on their way home from school.
  • The 2010 Tornado Outbreak: On June 24, 2010, a series of tornadoes tore through South Dakota, causing damage and destruction in several areas. These tornadoes were part of a larger outbreak affecting multiple states.
  • The Black Hills Flood of 1972: In the summer of 1972, heavy rainfall caused flash flooding in the Black Hills region. The catastrophic flooding resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives and extensive property damage.