GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Fall’s second weekend brings a burst of wind and warmth across the Red River Valley before calmer, cooler air arrives for the Columbus Day holiday. Gusts up to 40 mph will sweep across eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota through Saturday, keeping travel challenging on I-29 and nearby rural highways.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, a mix of clouds and isolated showers may develop late Saturday into Sunday morning, mainly east of the Red River. Conditions improve quickly as drier air filters in by Sunday afternoon, leading to a bright, comfortable Columbus Day with highs near 70°F. Winds will ease to around 10 mph, creating ideal conditions for pumpkin patch visits, park walks, or early leaf-peeping trips before mid-October’s next cooldown.
Motorists should remain alert for crosswinds Saturday, especially on north-south routes. Secure outdoor items and postpone tall-ladder or roof work until winds settle Sunday. Cooler mornings early next week may dip into the low 30s, signaling the first hint of frost potential in sheltered rural spots.
By midweek, sunshine dominates with mild afternoons, but forecasters caution another shift toward seasonal chill by Thursday night. Fall’s rhythm of warm days and crisp nights continues, marking a classic October stretch for both states as Halloween decorations go up and lawns start collecting early leaves.
Five-Day Forecast for Grand Forks, ND:
Sat: 69/50 – Breezy with increasing clouds; scattered light showers possible late.
Sun: 72/37 – Partly sunny and breezy; gusts to 30+ mph.
Mon (Columbus Day): 70/30 – Sunny and calm; ideal fall holiday weather.
Tue: 50/35 – Mostly sunny; cooler start, pleasant afternoon.
Wed: 56/43 – Mostly sunny; light southeast breeze.
