GRAND FORKS, N.D. – A powerful stretch of Fall winds is raking across the Red River Valley early Sunday, marking a blustery close to the holiday weekend and an abrupt shift toward cooler, calmer air by Tuesday. South and west winds are topping 45 to 50 mph along I-29 and I-94, prompting the National Weather Service to keep a Wind Advisory in effect through this evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, gusty conditions will gradually ease tonight as a drier air mass builds in from the Dakotas. Monday — Columbus Day — will feature plenty of sunshine but much cooler air, with highs only in the low 50s. By Tuesday morning, residents from East Grand Forks to Crookston and Hillsboro may feel the season’s first real chill, with frost possible in sheltered rural areas.
High-profile vehicles and outdoor setups remain at risk through late afternoon Sunday. Motorists are urged to use caution on exposed stretches of I-29 and U.S. Highway 2, and homeowners should secure loose decorations and outdoor furniture. Power flickers remain possible in exposed areas before winds drop off overnight.
Looking ahead, the week turns seasonally crisp. Sunshine dominates through midweek before rain chances return late Wednesday night into Thursday. Gardeners should monitor temperatures for early frost potential midweek, especially north of Grand Forks.
Five-Day Forecast for Grand Forks, ND:
Sun: 71/36 – Windy, gusts near 50 mph; scattered showers fade late.
Mon: 51/29 – Sunny and cool; calmer winds for the holiday.
Tue: 48/37 – Partly sunny; chilly start, patchy frost early.
Wed: 59/47 – Breezy and milder; clouds increase late.
Thu: 62/44 – Scattered showers; turning breezy again by afternoon.
