Grand Forks, N.D. – A steamy Fourth of July is in store for eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota as temperatures soar into the 90s, with heat indices reaching the mid-90s before strong thunderstorms roll in late Thursday into Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, a cold front will sweep across the region beginning Thursday afternoon, bringing a heightened risk for storms—some potentially severe—during peak fireworks hours and into Friday night. The Red River Valley, including Fargo, Grand Forks, and Devils Lake, is expected to experience heat index values between 92°F and 96°F Friday afternoon.
Cities like Bemidji, Thief River Falls, and Detroit Lakes could also see heat indices in the low to mid-90s, with storm chances rising sharply between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. on the Fourth. Rain probabilities reach up to 65% by early evening in several locations, creating uncertainty around fireworks displays and outdoor events.
Residents are urged to limit time outdoors during peak heat, stay hydrated, and monitor weather alerts closely. If storms develop, avoid travel and secure any outdoor equipment or tents.
Additional advisories may be issued as the front progresses. The storm threat lingers into early Saturday.
🌤 Five-Day Weather Outlook (Grand Forks region):
- Wednesday (7/2): High 89°F, mostly sunny, heat index 91°F
- Thursday (7/3): High 93°F, humid, evening storms likely
- Friday (7/4): High 92°F, heat index 95°F, storms possible PM
- Saturday (7/5): High 84°F, partly cloudy, scattered showers
- Sunday (7/6): High 79°F, breezy and cooler
