Grand Forks, North Dakota is starting the day locked in bitter cold, but a notable turnaround is already underway. Early Sunday morning remains harsh, with wind chills ranging from -25° to -40°F, making frostbite a concern in as little as 10 minutes. Even as air temperatures slowly climb above zero, breezy south winds will keep conditions feeling raw and uncomfortable through midday.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, today will be partly cloudy and breezy, with afternoon highs ranging from 5° to 25°F. While this is technically warmer than overnight lows, persistent winds of 15 to 25 mph will continue to amplify the cold sensation. Anyone heading outdoors should dress in full winter gear and limit prolonged exposure.
Relief begins tonight and into Monday, as winds ease slightly and warmer air pushes north. Morning lows will range from 0° to 15°F, followed by afternoon highs between 15° and 35°F. This marks the start of a clear warming trend that accelerates quickly.
By Tuesday, Grand Forks could see high temperatures in the low to mid-40s, well above mid-December averages. Morning lows will also moderate, settling between 5° and 25°F. Sunshine mixed with clouds will help melt some snowpack, though shaded and untreated surfaces may remain icy.
The warming trend pauses slightly on Wednesday, when a weak system may bring light snow mainly north of Highway 2. Highs will still reach 25° to 40°F, keeping conditions relatively mild compared to the weekend cold.
