How Much Daylight Does South Dakota Actually Lose In October?

As autumn deepens across the prairies, South Dakota experiences one of the most dramatic periods of daylight loss during the year.

Throughout October, the state loses approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes of daylight.

The pace of change accelerates as the month progresses. 

In early October, South Dakotans lose about 3 minutes of daylight each day, while by month's end, the daily loss slows slightly to around 2 minutes and 45 seconds. 

On Oct. 2nd in Sioux Falls, Sunrise is at 7:25 am and Sunset is at 7:05 pm.

By Oct. 31st, Sunrise in Sioux Falls will be at 8:01 with Sunset at 6:18

This creates a noticeable shift in daily routines, with sunrise occurring progressively later and sunset arriving earlier each evening.

For example, on October 1st, Brookings sees 11 hours and 42 minutes of daylight, but by October 31st, that shrinks to just 10 hours and 14 minutes of daylight.

Similar patterns occur across the state, from Sioux Falls to Rapid City, as South Dakota sits at a latitude where seasonal changes in daylight are particularly pronounced.

This rapid daylight loss affects more than just the clock, it influences everything from farming schedules to outdoor recreation.

October's diminishing light signals wildlife to prepare for winter, triggers fall colors in the Black Hills, and reminds residents to adjust their daily activities around the changing sunrise and sunset times.

Understanding these patterns helps South Dakotans plan ahead, whether it's finishing outdoor projects, adjusting livestock feeding schedules, or simply preparing mentally for the darker months ahead.