GRAND FORKS, ND–MN — Frost sparkles on car windshields this morning as calm air hangs over the Red River Valley. But the quiet won’t last long — signs point to the first true winter tease of the season as a new system approaches, bringing rain, snow, and gusty winds to start the new week.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, clouds will thicken late Sunday with rain likely by Monday afternoon. Roads could turn slick as temperatures drop Monday night, leading to a rain-to-snow transition across eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota. The changeover may start before dawn Tuesday, creating patchy blowing snow and reduced visibility during the morning commute.
Snow accumulations look light — generally an inch or two — but strong northwest winds could gust over 30 mph, especially along Highway 2 and I-29. Travelers should plan for slower driving conditions and possible visibility issues through Tuesday afternoon as colder air surges in.
By midweek, high pressure will clear skies but leave behind a sharp cold snap. Daytime highs may struggle to reach the upper 20s to near 30°F, with wind chills dipping into the teens. Thanksgiving Day looks dry and chilly, providing stable travel weather regionally — though a larger national storm pattern remains possible after November 25th, potentially bringing heavy snow to parts of the Midwest and Northeast.
Five-Day Outlook (Grand Forks–East Grand Forks)
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 50°F
- Monday: Rain likely, high 43°F
- Tuesday: Rain/snow mix, windy, high 35°F
- Wednesday: Partly cloudy, high 27°F
- Thanksgiving Day: Clear, cold, high 34°F
