UPDATE: Evacuations underway for Black Hills wildfires

New law limiting utilities’ liability approved as wildfires break out in Black Hills

Authorities respond to the scene of wildfires near the city of Custer in South Dakota's Black Hills on March 12, 2026. (Photo courtesy of Custer County Sheriff's Office)As wind-driven wildfires flared up Thursday in the Black Hills and an electrical provider proactively shut off power to some customers, South Dakota’s governor signed a bill into law that will give utilities greater protection from wildfire lawsuits in exchange for filing wildfir…

Black Hills wildfires prompt evacuations, power shutoff in Southern Hills

Wind-driven wildfires in Custer County are threatening structures and forcing evacuations near Custer. Black Hills Energy has cut power to about 540 customers in the Southern Hills.

UPDATE: Evacuations underway for Black Hills wildfires

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) - Multiple wildfires have been reported in the Black Hills. The Custer Volunteer Fire Department says wildland fires are burning in the Hazelrodt and Deer Meadow area. The public is advised to stay out of the area while crews battle the fire. The Custer County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) has closed the [...]