CLEAR LAKE, S.D. – A powerful and confirmed tornado touched down near Clear Lake, South Dakota, around 7:00 p.m. prompting urgent warnings and shelter advisories across the region.

Spotters and storm chasers reported at least two tornadoes on the ground in the area, including one between Altamont and Clear Lake in Deuel County.

The National Weather Service issued a Tornado Warning for Deuel and Hamlin Counties, in effect until 7:15 p.m. CDT. As of 6:56 p.m., a tornado was confirmed on the ground near Altamont, tracking eastward at approximately 20 miles per hour.

The storm is also producing ping-pong ball-sized hail.

Current Storm Details:

• Location: Between Altamont and Clear Lake
• Direction & Speed: Moving east at 20 mph
• Hazards: Observed tornado, large hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter
• Time of Last Confirmation: 6:56 p.m. CDT
• Coordinates: 44.81°N, 96.71°W

Areas Likely Impacted Around 7:00 p.m.:

• Clear Lake
• Altamont
• Lake Alice
• Tunerville

This is a dangerous and life-threatening situation. Flying debris poses a serious hazard to those caught outdoors or in mobile homes.

Extensive damage to roofs, windows, vehicles, and trees is likely. Residents are urged to take immediate action:

“To repeat, a tornado is on the ground. TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Stay away from windows. If you are outside, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the nearest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.”

The tornado warning was reinforced by dramatic visual confirmation from storm chaser Alex Bartholomew, who captured a striking image of the tornado near Clear Lake, with fellow chaser Stephen Jones visible in the foreground of the scene.

Local authorities and emergency management officials continue to monitor the situation closely.

Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

If you are in the affected area, do not delay — seek shelter immediately and monitor local alerts.