Grand Forks, N.D. – Parts of eastern North Dakota could see severe thunderstorms Thursday afternoon and evening, bringing the potential for large hail, damaging winds up to 70 mph, and an isolated tornado or two. The National Weather Service has placed much of the region under a level 2 out of 5 risk for severe weather.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, storms are expected to develop by mid-afternoon Thursday and intensify as they track east into the evening. The strongest storms may produce hail the size of ping-pong balls, along with strong straight-line winds capable of knocking down tree limbs and power lines.
Communities including Grand Forks, Fargo, Devils Lake, and Langdon are in the zone of highest concern. Outdoor events and evening commutes could be disrupted, and residents are urged to have multiple ways to receive warnings. Officials recommend securing loose outdoor items, keeping devices charged, and knowing shelter locations in case tornado warnings are issued.
The severe weather threat should taper off late Thursday night, but additional updates are expected from the National Weather Service Thursday morning.
