Bismarck, N.D. – A Freeze Watch goes into effect late Friday across much of western and central North Dakota, with temperatures expected to dip as low as 30 degrees by early Saturday morning. Residents could wake to widespread frost that may harm late-season crops and backyard gardens.
According to the National Weather Service in Bismarck, the watch includes cities such as Williston, Dickinson, Mandan, Bowman, and Hettinger. The advisory remains in place until mid-morning Saturday, when temperatures are expected to climb above freezing.
Farmers across Williams, Mountrail, McKenzie, and Dunn counties may see damage to sensitive crops if protective measures aren’t taken. Homeowners are urged to cover flowers and vegetable plants, and those with outdoor plumbing should consider draining or insulating exposed lines to avoid damage.
Travel impacts are not expected, but rural areas could see icy patches on elevated surfaces before sunrise. Residents planning early Saturday activities should prepare for a sharp chill, with wind chills making conditions feel even colder in open areas.
The Freeze Watch expires by late Saturday morning, but forecasters warn that additional cold nights are possible through the weekend as fall-like air settles across the northern Plains.
