Grand Forks, ND – Residents across eastern North Dakota should prepare for the possibility of severe weather this weekend as a cold front moves through the region, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Grand Forks.
Forecasters said Thursday that very warm conditions ahead of the approaching front, combined with moisture, instability, and wind shear, may spark thunderstorm development Saturday afternoon and evening. The risk area includes communities stretching from Devils Lake to Fargo and points east toward the Minnesota border.
According to the NWS, most storms will remain scattered, but some could briefly become severe. Hazards include hail up to 1 inch in diameter and wind gusts reaching 60 miles per hour. Tornado activity is considered unlikely.
The timing of the storm risk is centered on late Saturday afternoon into the evening hours, when the cold front will advance southeast across the state. Conditions are expected to improve overnight as the system pushes further east.
The NWS encourages residents to stay weather aware throughout the weekend. Those with outdoor plans or travel should monitor forecasts, sign up for severe weather alerts, and be ready to seek shelter if warnings are issued.
Eastern North Dakota has already experienced an unusually warm start to October, which forecasters say is helping fuel the setup for this weekend’s storms.
“Isolated severe thunderstorms are possible, with hail and strong wind gusts being the main concerns,” the NWS noted in its Thursday morning outlook.
Residents are advised to review safety plans and check that mobile devices are enabled to receive emergency alerts.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
