RAPID CITY, S.D. – The National Weather Service has issued an air pollution alert for dust in Rapid City, South Dakota, for areas west of “The Gap,” effective from 10 a.m. today until midnight tonight.

The alert, issued in collaboration with the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, warns of poor air quality due to gusty northwest winds. Forecasts call for winds from 20 to 35 miles per hour, with gusts potentially reaching up to 60 miles per hour, which will suspend fine dust particles in the air.

City Environmental Planner Morgan Twombly of the city’s Air Quality Office advised the public to take necessary precautions. Those with health conditions, particularly the elderly, young children, and anyone with respiratory problems, are advised to avoid excessive physical exertion and reduce their exposure to the dust.