Grand Forks, ND – Bitterly cold temperatures and extreme wind chills as low as -40 are set to hit North Dakota and northern Minnesota this weekend, with dangerous conditions persisting into Monday morning. The National Weather Service (NWS) warns frostbite could occur in as little as five minutes.
According to the NWS, wind chills on Sunday morning will dip to -30 to -45 across the Red River Valley, with actual lows between -22°F and -15°F. By Monday, wind chills could plummet further to -35 to -50. The frigid air will be accompanied by gusts up to 55 mph, causing blowing snow and whiteout conditions along roadways, including I-29 and US-2.
Travelers should prepare for slippery roads and reduced visibility. Snow showers expected Friday afternoon could quickly obscure roadways. The strongest winds will occur along the Red River Valley, significantly impacting visibility through Friday evening.
Saturday’s forecast calls for partly sunny skies but little relief from the cold, with highs near -3°F and wind chill values below -30. Sunday will remain frigid, with lows approaching -20°F and wind chills at life-threatening levels.
Residents should limit outdoor exposure and prepare emergency kits in vehicles. Those traveling should check conditions by calling 511 or visiting weather.gov.
Temperatures will rise slightly by Tuesday, with highs reaching 6°F. However, the weekend’s conditions pose significant risks to exposed skin and travel plans.
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