The Rapid City Fire Department says these extreme conditions didn't just happen overnight and will take time to improve.

Lt. Brent Long says, "You have to look at what the forecast weather is for the day. Wind speeds, relative humidity, when it gets down below mid-teens down to single digits, you're really going to have a problem. We have people out there that actually test the moisture content of the fuels out there and kind of give those a rating too."

Long says it's important not to park your car in tall grasses. A burn ban is also in effect in the city; however, you can use your charcoal and gas grills.

-Justin Pazera