Bismarck, North Dakota – Strong thunderstorms are sweeping across North Dakota tonight, triggering a severe thunderstorm watch for 28 counties—including Bismarck, Minot, Williston, and Dickinson—through 2 a.m. Saturday. Residents could face damaging winds, large hail, and the potential for power outages and road closures as storms intensify overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Bismarck, the severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect for counties spanning from Bottineau and Ward in the north, to Adams, Slope, and Stark in the southwest. The alert covers major population centers and travel corridors such as I-94, Highway 83, and US-2, with the highest risk expected between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.
Cities including Mandan, Beulah, Bowman, and Rugby should prepare for rapid storm development, sudden downpours, and possible tree or property damage. Emergency management teams urge residents to secure outdoor items, stay indoors, and avoid non-essential travel after dark. Charge mobile devices and have flashlights ready in case of outages.
Drivers should monitor ND Roads and check for emergency alerts before traveling, especially in rural and low-visibility areas. This storm system is reminiscent of last July’s severe event that downed power lines and disrupted travel across the region.
Severe weather alerts remain in effect until 2 a.m., with the National Weather Service expected to update warnings if conditions worsen or move east. Stay tuned for the latest advisories overnight.
