Grand Forks, North Dakota – While the worst of the recent Arctic cold is easing, dangerously cold wind chills are expected to return to the Grand Forks area late tonight and persist into early next week, prompting renewed safety concerns.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, wind chills today with south winds of 5 to 10 mph are expected to improve briefly into the negative teens and 20s below zero. However, conditions will deteriorate again late tonight into Sunday morning as temperatures fall back into the minus 35 to minus 40 degree wind chill range.
Forecasters note that despite slight warming during daylight hours, the region will remain locked in a prolonged period of extreme cold. High temperatures next week are expected to remain above zero, but wind chill values will continue to pose a serious hazard. By Monday morning, wind chills in the Grand Forks area are forecast to range between minus 25 and minus 40 degrees.
At these levels, frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. Prolonged exposure significantly increases the risk of hypothermia, particularly for those without adequate cold-weather protection.
The National Weather Service urges residents to limit time outdoors, dress in multiple warm layers, cover exposed skin, and ensure pets are brought indoors. Drivers are advised to keep winter survival kits in vehicles in case of breakdowns, as extreme cold can quickly become life-threatening.
Those most vulnerable include older adults, young children, unhoused individuals, and outdoor workers. Students and young workers commuting during early morning hours may face the greatest risk during peak cold periods.
Officials stress that while snowfall is not the primary concern, cold alone can be deadly. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates closely as Arctic conditions persist across eastern North Dakota.
