Grand Forks, ND – The National Weather Service (NWS) in Grand Forks has issued a Cold Weather Advisory for large portions of eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, warning of dangerously cold wind chills reaching as low as 45 below zero from Friday morning through noon Sunday.
The advisory includes communities such as Fargo, Grand Forks, Bemidji, Devils Lake, Detroit Lakes, Moorhead, and Crookston, as well as dozens of surrounding rural counties across the Red River Valley region.
According to the NWS, frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes, and hypothermia is likely with prolonged exposure. Residents are urged to limit outdoor activity, bundle up in layers, and ensure all skin is covered if travel or work outdoors is unavoidable.
Officials also encourage residents to check on elderly neighbors and those without adequate heat, bring pets indoors, and make sure livestock have shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
Drivers are advised to carry emergency kits with blankets, food, and extra clothing in case of vehicle trouble during the cold snap.
The Arctic outbreak is expected to keep temperatures well below zero through the weekend, with only slight moderation possible by early next week.
