Grand Forks, ND – A thick haze of wildfire smoke continues to blanket eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota today, triggering air quality concerns and limiting visibility through at least Saturday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, smoke from wildfires is reducing air quality across the region, with visibility in Grand Forks dropping to just 4 miles early Friday. Affected areas include East Polk, Pennington, Mahnomen, Becker, and Kittson counties in Minnesota, and Walsh, Traill, and Cass counties in North Dakota.
Residents across the Red River Valley may notice persistent haze and breathing discomfort, especially those with respiratory conditions. Outdoor activity should be limited, and N95 masks are recommended for sensitive individuals. South winds around 10 mph will keep smoke circulating through Saturday, but a shift is coming.
By Tuesday, a more active weather pattern could bring thunderstorms and stronger winds, potentially improving air quality. However, these storms may also bring localized flooding and gusty winds.
No spotter activation is expected today, but updates will continue as visibility and storm potential evolve. Additional air quality alerts or severe weather warnings may be issued early next week.
🔎 Five-Day Forecast for East Grand Forks, MN:
- Friday: Areas of smoke. High 80°F. South winds up to 10 mph.
- Saturday: Areas of smoke, then sunny. High 86°F.
- Sunday: Chance of showers/storms after 1 p.m. High 76°F.
- Monday: Showers likely after midnight. High 78°F.
- Tuesday: Showers/storms possible in afternoon. High 81°F.
