Grand Forks, ND – A steely gray dawn settles over the Red River Valley this morning as Arctic air begins its push south. Flurries drift across frozen fields, but it’s the wind — not the snow — that will define the next 72 hours. By Friday morning, temperatures will nosedive and the region could face wind chills near –40°F, making this the most dangerous cold so far this December.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, light snow will continue through the day with up to a half inch of accumulation. The real impact begins tonight as a strong Arctic front surges through North Dakota and northwest Minnesota. Winds will strengthen to 25 mph with gusts topping 35 mph, leading to patchy blowing snow and reduced visibility on I-29 and Highway 2.
By Friday morning, actual air temperatures will hover near zero, but gusty northwest winds will drive “feels-like” readings down to –30°F or colder. Meteorologists warn that exposed skin can freeze in less than 10 minutes in these conditions. The brutal cold will persist through Saturday before slowly easing late Sunday.
Residents are urged to layer up, limit outdoor exposure, and keep extra blankets and emergency supplies in vehicles. Pet owners should bring animals indoors and check on elderly neighbors who may lack sufficient heating.
Five-Day Outlook (Grand Forks, ND / East Grand Forks, MN)
- Friday: Blowing snow early, high 3°F, low –20°F.
- Saturday: Sunny, high –7°F, low –25°F.
- Sunday: Breezy but milder, high 11°F, low 1°F.
- Monday: Partly sunny, high 17°F, low 7°F.
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 38°F.
