Minnesota and North Dakota Weather: Severe Storms Until 8 PM Thursday

Northern Minnesota and Eastern North Dakota – Residents across northern Minnesota and eastern North Dakota are facing a period of dangerous weather as a severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect until 8 p.m. on Thursday, September 3, 2026. A cluster of storms is currently tracking eastward, with additional development expected along a trailing gust front that will shift the area of impact toward the east and southeast throughout the remainder of the evening.

According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, primary threats associated with this weather system include scattered damaging winds with isolated gusts reaching 75 mph. Additionally, scattered large hail is expected, with some isolated events producing hail up to 2 inches in diameter. Forecasters also warn that the conditions are favorable for the development of a tornado or two within the region.

The current watch area covers a corridor extending approximately 60 miles north and south of a line stretching from 45 miles west-southwest of Grand Forks, North Dakota, to 10 miles east of Bemidji, Minnesota. Aviation interests are advised of extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts reaching 65 knots, with cumulonimbus cloud tops reaching 550.

The National Weather Service reminds the public that a watch indicates conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur. Residents in the affected areas should stay alert for changing conditions, monitor local weather statements, and listen for further updates. It is important to remember that severe thunderstorms can occasionally produce tornadoes.

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