Grand Forks, North Dakota – Travelers across North Dakota should brace for dangerous crosswinds and unsecured debris as gusts near 45 mph sweep across U.S. Highway 2 and the Red River Valley Friday. A Wind Advisory remains in effect until 1 a.m. Saturday, followed by a sharp temperature drop that could bring frost to the region by Saturday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, sustained north winds from 20 to 30 mph—with higher gusts—will make driving hazardous, especially for high-profile vehicles. Power outages and falling tree limbs are possible. The advisory affects counties across western Minnesota and eastern North Dakota, including Polk, Walsh, Cass, and Richland.
Friday’s daytime highs in Grand Forks will struggle to reach 54°F before dropping into the 30s by early Saturday. Precipitation is expected to taper off Friday evening, giving way to a brief dry window on Saturday. However, temperatures will tumble again Saturday night into the low 30s, prompting frost concerns across Grand Forks, Towner, and Cavalier counties.
Motorists along I-29 and U.S. 2 should exercise caution through Friday evening. Outdoor objects should be secured, and sensitive plants covered ahead of Saturday night’s frost risk.
Looking Ahead:
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high of 57°F.
- Monday: Partly sunny, chance showers late, high of 62°F.
- Tuesday: 50% chance of showers, high near 63°F.
- Wednesday: Drier, with highs near 70°F.
