Grand Forks, North Dakota – Drivers and outdoor workers across eastern North Dakota should prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions today as scattered thunderstorms develop with the potential for wind gusts reaching 50 mph.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, showers and scattered thunderstorms are expected throughout the day across eastern North Dakota and portions of northwest and west-central Minnesota. While widespread severe weather is not expected, a few stronger storms could develop this afternoon.
The primary threat will be damaging wind gusts up to 50 mph, capable of blowing around unsecured outdoor items and creating difficult travel conditions on open stretches of road, particularly along Interstate 29 and Highway 2. Small hail is also possible in the strongest storms.
Most communities, including Grand Forks, Fargo, Devils Lake, Crookston, Thief River Falls and Bemidji, can expect rainfall totals between 0.10 and 0.25 inches, although isolated locations may receive up to 0.50 inches under heavier downpours.
The unsettled pattern does not end today. Another round of showers and scattered thunderstorms is expected to develop late Tuesday night and continue into Wednesday. Forecasters indicate the best chance for rainfall exceeding one-half inch will be south of Highway 2 during that period.
Residents should secure loose outdoor objects, monitor weather alerts and be prepared to move indoors if thunderstorms approach. Lightning can strike well away from rainfall and remains a hazard with any storm.
Five Day Forecast for Grand Forks, North Dakota
- Monday: Showers and scattered thunderstorms. Highs 69-79°. Northwest winds 10-25 mph.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny. Highs 69-76°. Lows 42-49°.
- Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Highs 64-69°. Lows 48-54°.
- Thursday: Partly sunny and cooler. Highs 62-68°. Lows 43-50°.
- Friday: Additional forecast updates expected as the pattern evolves.
