Fargo, North Dakota – A rapid warmup will push temperatures across the Dakotas and Minnesota 10 to 15 degrees above normal by Friday afternoon, bringing an early-season heat spike and increasing the risk of late-day thunderstorms.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, there is a 70 to 80 percent probability of above-normal temperatures across the Northern Plains through early next week. Eastern North Dakota, South Dakota, and much of Minnesota—including Fargo, Sioux Falls, and Minneapolis—are in a high-confidence zone for sustained warmth.
Fargo is expected to reach the upper 70s to near 80 degrees by Saturday between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., with similar conditions extending east along I-94 into Minneapolis. Sioux Falls and southern Minnesota will also climb into the upper 70s to low 80s, with dry and breezy conditions during peak heating hours.
By late afternoon into the evening, increasing moisture will trigger scattered showers and thunderstorms across the region. Storms may produce brief heavy rain, lightning, and wind gusts over 40 mph, especially along I-29 and I-94, potentially impacting travel.
Residents should stay hydrated, remain alert for changing weather late in the day, and prepare for brief disruptions during the evening commute. This pattern will persist through the weekend into early next week, with additional advisories likely as heat and storm chances continue.
