Grand Forks, North Dakota – Patchy dense fog blanketed parts of northeast North Dakota and northwest Minnesota early Friday, reducing visibility to a quarter-mile or less in some areas and making for hazardous morning travel.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, calm winds and clear skies overnight allowed fog to settle across the region. Visibility is expected to improve after 9 a.m., but until then, drivers from Grand Forks to Bemidji may face sudden drops in visibility, especially along rural highways and low-lying areas.
The fog risk is classified as “minor,” but the NWS warns of rapid changes in visibility, which can lead to dangerous driving conditions. Motorists are urged to use low-beam headlights, allow extra travel time, and avoid using cruise control on slick roads.
Cities along the Red River Valley, including Crookston, Thief River Falls, and Devils Lake, are among the affected zones. School buses and early commuters should exercise caution during the morning rush.
Conditions are expected to clear by mid-morning, though more fog could develop overnight if skies remain calm. Stay tuned to local updates if you’re planning early travel.
