Grand Forks, North Dakota – A brief period of mild weather today will give way to colder conditions tonight and Friday as a cold front sweeps south across eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, bringing gusty winds, falling temperatures, and pockets of light snow along major routes including Interstates 29 and 94.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, west winds today will allow temperatures to rise above freezing across all locations, creating relatively favorable travel conditions through the afternoon. However, forecasters say an upper-level disturbance will bring a chance for light snow this evening, mainly across far northwest Minnesota and the Lake of the Woods region.
Snow accumulations are expected to remain light, generally less than one-half inch, with the highest potential near Roseau and Baudette. While widespread impacts are not anticipated, brief slick spots could develop on untreated roads late tonight, especially along US-2 and MN-11.
Behind the system, a cold front will move through overnight, ushering in colder air and gusty north winds of 25 to 35 mph into Friday morning. The National Weather Service notes that flurries may linger into Friday, particularly in open and rural areas where blowing snow could briefly reduce visibility.
Temperatures will fall quickly overnight, marking a sharp change from today’s mild conditions. Despite the colder air, forecasters say this will be a short-lived cold shot, with temperatures expected to moderate again by Saturday afternoon and Sunday.
Looking ahead, a dry weekend is expected, with improving conditions for travel and outdoor activities across eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota.
For commuters, students, and early-morning travelers, officials recommend being prepared for changing conditions overnight, especially during the Friday morning commute along I-29 near Grand Forks and Fargo, and rural highways farther north.
Residents are encouraged to monitor forecast updates as conditions evolve through Friday.
