Tornadoes Watertown SD—these words defined the terror and awe that swept across eastern South Dakota late Sunday, July 27, 2025. As severe weather warnings echoed through the region and stunning images flooded social media, residents near Watertown faced a night of both destruction and resilience.
Just before midnight, storm chasers and local observers captured dramatic video of a loud tornado tearing across open plains just west of Watertown. At least one violent tornado touched down, leaving visible damage and prompting real-time safety alerts from meteorologists and emergency authorities.
The Night When Nature Unleashed Its Power
The National Weather Service issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for the Watertown area, noting the potential for golf ball-sized hail and 60mph winds. Radar indicated intense rotation, heightening concern for possible tornado formation throughout Codington County and neighboring Deuel and Hamlin counties. Trained spotters reported hazardous conditions late into the evening, confirming the presence of at least one tornado on the ground.
Mobile phone footage, broadcast across social media platforms, showed ominous clouds and a funnel descending west of Watertown just before midnight. Some video clips caught the tornado’s path as it churned up debris and moved through rural areas, narrowly missing more densely populated neighborhoods.
Damage Report and Warnings Issued
While initial reports suggest that most significant damage occurred in open farmland and outskirts, emergency responders were dispatched throughout the area. There were concerns about flooding due to torrential rains that accompanied the supercell thunderstorms, with 2–5 inches reported in some locations. Several creeks and low-lying areas quickly became impassable, further complicating rescue and cleanup efforts.
Residents received urgent warnings:
- Take shelter immediately if you hear tornado sirens or see a tornado.
- Avoid flooded roads—most flood-related deaths occur when vehicles attempt to cross.
- Prepare for possible power outages and property damage from hail or downed trees.
Social Media Shows the Storm’s Fury
Storm chasers and locals shared photos and videos on platforms like X and TikTok, bringing the situation to a global audience. One post at 11:55PM documented the “violent, loud tornado” near Watertown, drawing collective concern and wishes for safety. Another storm chaser uploaded quick clips of the twister’s path west of Watertown at 12:21AM as the system moved eastward. News agencies and weather channels provided live updates as the night unfolded.
Ongoing Severe Weather Watch
As of early July 28, 2025, severe thunderstorm watches remain in effect across multiple counties in northeast South Dakota, including Watertown. Flood warnings are also active, with officials monitoring rivers, creeks, and urban flooding in the wake of heavy rainfall. Power outages and property damage are still being assessed, but no major injuries have yet been confirmed.
Key Stats: Watertown Tornado Outbreak July 27–28, 2025
Final Thoughts
The sudden emergence of tornadoes near Watertown SD is a stark reminder of the unpredictability and intensity of summer storms in the Midwest. Communities pulled together, and early warning systems likely prevented injuries or worse. As authorities continue damage assessment, locals are urged to stay aware of evolving forecasts and heed all emergency instructions.
Have you or someone you know been affected by last night’s storm? Share your experience or your tips for staying safe in severe weather in the comments below, and let’s help keep our community informed and resilient for whatever comes next.