Grand Forks, N.D. – North Dakotans should prepare for a stretch of severe weather Thursday afternoon as storms capable of producing golf ball-sized hail and 60 mph wind gusts move into the region. The highest risk window runs from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., bringing potential travel disruptions, downed power lines, and frequent lightning.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, a cold front sweeping in from the west will destabilize the atmosphere, triggering isolated severe thunderstorms. The Devils Lake area could see activity as early as Wednesday night, but the broader threat arrives Thursday afternoon and evening across eastern North Dakota, including Fargo, Grand Forks, Jamestown, and surrounding counties.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, charge devices in case of outages, and monitor weather alerts. Large hail may damage vehicles, crops, and roofs, while strong winds could make driving hazardous on highways such as I-29 and U.S. 2. The Weather Service says tornadoes are unlikely, but the risk for hail and damaging wind is elevated.
Storm chances taper later Thursday night, though additional alerts could be issued if conditions intensify
