Grand Forks drivers may want to keep both hands on the wheel Wednesday as powerful wind gusts sweep across eastern North Dakota. Gusts up to 30 mph are expected by midday, creating challenges on highways like I-29 and U.S. 2.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, winds will strengthen out of the north by late morning, topping 20 mph sustained with gusts near 30 mph. The shift follows lingering smoke Tuesday night, which should clear as cooler, drier air pushes south. Lows Wednesday night will drop sharply to 38 degrees, signaling a clear shift toward fall weather.
Travelers should prepare for reduced control of high-profile vehicles on open stretches, especially north–south routes. Outdoor workers and students heading to school Wednesday morning will notice brisk air and falling temperatures compared to Tuesday’s 73-degree high.
Thursday brings another round of unsettled weather, with showers likely by afternoon and highs only near 59. Rainfall could slow commutes and reduce visibility on local roads. Friday rebounds warmer with highs near 80, but strong northwest winds return, gusting over 30 mph at times.
The weekend trends cooler and more seasonable. Saturday morning could dip near freezing in low-lying areas, while Sunday warms into the low 70s with sunshine.
Residents should plan for changing conditions, dress in layers for brisk mornings, and monitor updated advisories through midweek.
Five Day Forecast for Grand Forks, ND:
- Wednesday: High 69, breezy north winds, low 38.
- Thursday: High 59 with afternoon showers, low 42.
- Friday: Sunny, high 80, windy; low 40.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high 58, low 39.
- Sunday: Sunny, high 72, low 44.
