Bismarck, ND – Severe thunderstorms are forecast to impact much of North Dakota and neighboring areas today, with meteorologists warning of a heightened risk for tornadoes, very large hail, and damaging winds. Residents across the Upper Midwest are urged to remain alert as dangerous weather could unfold throughout the afternoon and evening.
According to the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, scattered severe storms are likely to develop this afternoon over parts of Montana and western North Dakota, before spreading eastward into tonight. The primary risks include supercell thunderstorms capable of producing very large hail, damaging winds in excess of 75 mph, and the possibility of a few tornadoes. The threat of severe wind is expected to increase later in the evening and overnight hours as the storms move through the Northern Plains.
Meteorologists advise that the greatest risk areas include central and eastern North Dakota, stretching from Bismarck and Minot eastward toward Fargo and Grand Forks, as well as portions of northern South Dakota and western Minnesota. Some supercells could produce hail stones larger than 2 inches in diameter, with damaging winds likely in the most intense storms.
The Storm Prediction Center recommends that residents closely monitor local weather updates and be prepared to take shelter if warnings are issued. “Continue to monitor forecasts for the latest information and updates to the risk areas. Be prepared to take action if watches and warnings are issued for your area,” the agency stated in its Thursday update.
For real-time warnings and radar updates, visit spc.noaa.gov or tune in to local broadcast alerts.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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