Grand Forks, N.D. – Strong storms are expected to intensify along the Minnesota–North Dakota border late Thursday afternoon, with the possibility of tornadoes developing between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, severe thunderstorms will first develop in northeast North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, before spreading into southeast North Dakota and west-central Minnesota later in the evening. Forecasters warn of golf ball–sized hail and wind gusts up to 75 mph. While widespread tornado activity is not expected, an isolated twister cannot be ruled out.
Cities at greatest risk include Grand Forks, Fargo, Moorhead, and Fergus Falls, where evening commuters could encounter rapidly changing conditions. Drivers are urged to remain weather aware, avoid flooded or debris-covered roads, and have multiple ways to receive alerts.
Residents should secure outdoor items, keep phones charged in case of power outages, and prepare for sudden warnings. Any tornado development could form quickly along storm boundaries, giving little time for response.
Severe weather alerts remain in effect through Thursday evening, and additional warnings may be issued as storms track east into Minnesota overnight.
