Bismarck, N.D. – A dangerous combination of heat, wind, and low humidity will push parts of North Dakota into near-critical to critical fire weather conditions through Sunday evening, prompting fire weather watches across much of the state.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, high temperatures will surge from the mid-70s and 80s on Saturday into the upper 80s and low 90s by Sunday. Relative humidity will plummet as low as 18% to 25%, while southerly winds accelerate from 10 to 25 mph Saturday to 35 mph Sunday, with gusts peaking near 45 mph. These factors significantly elevate wildfire ignition and spread potential, especially in areas with dry grass and recent warmth.
Fire weather conditions will be most intense across central and eastern counties—impacting cities like Grand Forks, Jamestown, Valley City, and Wahpeton—on both Saturday and Sunday. Western counties including Minot and Dickinson will see heightened risk Sunday only.
Residents are urged to avoid burning, check for active burn bans, and never idle vehicles over dry vegetation. Outdoor equipment use should be limited to early morning or evening hours when humidity is slightly higher.
Conditions will begin easing late Sunday night, but officials warn that additional fire weather alerts are possible if dryness and wind persist.
