South Dakota has received a presidential disaster declaration (April 10, 2026) in response to a historic, record-breaking winter windstorm that struck western South Dakota on December 17 and 18, 2025. The declaration makes federal assistance available to support recovery efforts following widespread damage caused by extreme winds.   Governor Larry Rhoden previously requested a presidential disaster declaration for this storm, which produced sustained high winds and gusts exceeding 90 mph in parts of western South Dakota, downing trees and power lines, damaging public infrastructure and leaving thousands of residents without power for days. The Black Hills region was particularly impacted as challenging terrain and extensive forest damage delayed restoration efforts and access for emergency responders.   The disaster declaration applies to public property in Custer, Fall River, and Pennington Counties. Preliminary damage assessments conducted January 20 to 22, 2026 confirmed more than $4.6 million in public infrastructure damage across the three counties, exceeding federal thresholds for disaster assistance. Damage included roads, power systems, parks, recreation areas, trails, and public facilities, with Custer County experiencing especially significant per-capita impacts.   The declaration provides Public Assistance funding for eligible recovery costs and makes Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding available statewide. This will help support ongoing recovery efforts while strengthening infrastructure to better withstand future extreme weather events. ...read more read less