Grand Forks, North Dakota – After a stretch of pleasant summer weather, North Dakotans should prepare for a shift as severe storms threaten parts of the state Wednesday evening. Scattered thunderstorms could sweep across eastern North Dakota and the Red River Valley, with an isolated severe storm not out of the question.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, a warmer and more unstable air mass will move into central North Dakota by Wednesday afternoon and reach the eastern part of the state by evening. Isolated storms could bring hail up to the size of ping-pong balls and wind gusts as high as 60 mph. While tornadoes remain unlikely, the risk for severe thunderstorms increases after sunset, particularly in cities like Grand Forks, Fargo, and Devils Lake.
Residents are urged to stay weather aware, especially if planning evening travel on I-29, U.S. Highway 2, or rural roads across the Red River Valley. Ensure mobile devices are charged, have multiple ways to receive warnings, and know where to shelter if storms develop. This midweek severe weather threat is typical for early July but serves as a reminder to review emergency plans.
Severe weather warnings remain possible through Wednesday night, with more updates expected if conditions change.
