Wild winds in SA spark dramatic sea rescue

Wild winds have lashed South Australia creating chaotic conditions and sparking a dramatic sea rescue.

Dangerous dust storms have forced residents to take shelter and left farmers devastated. 

A man was pulled to safety in Boston Bay off Port Lincoln after activating his flare in dangerous waves. 

It's understood his boat lost power and in the treacherous conditions he had to be towed to shore. 

On land, the state's farmers are doing it tough.

"This is probably the worst day I have seen in at least 40 years," Peter Rehn told 9NEWS.

Mr Rehn recorded gusts of 102km/h at his Cleve property today. 

The wind has destroyed whatever crops were surviving admidst the lack of rainfall leaving Mr Rehn and others in his shoes devastated.

The Bureau of Meteorology issued a severe weather warning for an area extending from the mid-north to Kangaroo Island.

Those with health conditions like asthma were warned to stay indoors. 

Winds were lighter in Adelaide city, reaching a high of 50km/h - half as powerful as that on the west coast. 

South Australia’s State Emergency Service warned residents ahead of time to move cars away from trees and to secure their loose items. 

They're still waiting to assess the damage.