Grand Forks, N.D. – Isolated severe thunderstorms could bring damaging winds and hail the size of ping pong balls to parts of North Dakota and Minnesota this afternoon, with the most active period expected between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, a level 1 out of 5 severe thunderstorm risk is in place for southeastern North Dakota—including Fargo, Valley City, and Wahpeton—extending into northwest and west-central Minnesota, including Bemidji, Alexandria, and Detroit Lakes. Wind gusts could reach up to 60 mph, and hail may exceed 1.5 inches in diameter.
While tornadoes are unlikely, the main concerns are for isolated strong cells producing damaging wind bursts and large hail. Travel could be hazardous during downpours, especially on I-94 and U.S. Highway 2. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, and stay off roads if storms develop near their area.
This is a short-duration threat, with conditions expected to calm by tonight. However, more storms are possible into early next week, so continue to monitor updates and stay weather-aware through the weekend.
