Grand Forks, ND – Smoke from Canadian wildfires is blanketing eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, cutting visibility to one mile or less and creating health concerns through Monday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, dense smoke will linger across the region today and tonight, with hazy skies and poor air quality extending into Monday afternoon. Smoke-related visibility reductions and respiratory health impacts are expected, particularly for sensitive groups such as children, seniors, and those with pre-existing conditions.
Cities including East Grand Forks, Thief River Falls, and Devils Lake will remain under this smoke plume, with air quality levels considered unhealthy for sensitive populations. Motorists on I-29, US-2, and MN-11 should drive with caution, especially during the early morning and overnight hours when smoke tends to settle.
In addition to the smoke, a strong thunderstorm risk will develop Monday afternoon. Winds may gust up to 30 mph, and some areas could see brief downpours and lightning after 1 p.m. The NWS has not issued severe thunderstorm warnings yet but is monitoring conditions closely.
The smoke is expected to gradually lift by Tuesday, with sunshine and calmer winds returning. Additional updates may follow if smoke conditions worsen or storms intensify.
🌤 Five-Day Forecast for East Grand Forks, MN:
- Monday: Areas of smoke early. Showers and PM thunderstorms possible. High 75°F. Wind S 10–20 mph.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High 74°F. Breezy.
- Wednesday: Sunny with light winds. High 77°F.
- Thursday: Partly sunny with 30% chance of showers. High 77°F.
- Friday: 30% chance of showers and storms. High 79°F. Breezy south winds.
