Grand Forks, North Dakota – Visibility could drop below one mile along I-29 and US-2 through midmorning Thursday as dense fog lingers across eastern North Dakota, creating slick spots and sudden slowdowns for early commuters.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, fog will remain a concern through Thursday morning, especially across southeast North Dakota and west-central Minnesota. While skies may partially clear later in the day, colder air to the north will hold temperatures in the 20s and low 30s near the Canadian border, compared to milder 50-degree readings farther south.
In Grand Forks and surrounding communities including East Grand Forks and Thompson, drivers should expect fluctuating visibility during the morning commute. Fog may thin briefly in the afternoon before redeveloping late Thursday night into early Friday. Overnight lows could dip into the teens north of US-2, increasing the risk of patchy frost on bridges and overpasses.
By Friday, a 20% to 40% chance of a wintry mix could develop, particularly along and north of I-29. While confidence in exact placement remains low, light freezing rain or snow could create isolated slick stretches on US-81 and rural highways if precipitation overlaps with subfreezing temperatures.
Motorists should use low-beam headlights in fog and allow extra braking distance. Residents are encouraged to monitor updated statements as conditions may shift quickly into Friday, and additional advisories could be issued if wintry precipitation becomes more likely.
