Grand Forks, N.D. – Eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota are in for a dramatic weather shift over the next several days, with temperatures climbing steadily into the weekend after a chance of strong to severe thunderstorms Friday afternoon and evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, Thursday will remain mostly sunny with southwest winds of 12 to 25 mph and afternoon highs between 82 and 88 degrees. A weak cold front will move through the region Friday, bringing a chance of thunderstorms from mid- to late afternoon into the evening.
Forecasters say a warm layer of air aloft may limit storm development, but if thunderstorms do form, they could quickly become severe. The exact coverage and intensity of storms remain uncertain, and forecast details may change as Friday approaches.
Temperatures will continue to rise despite the passing front. Highs are expected to reach 85 to 93 degrees Friday, 87 to 96 degrees Saturday, and 90 to 99 degrees Sunday. By Sunday, increasing humidity will push heat index values into the 93 to 103 degree range, making it feel significantly hotter across the Red River Valley and surrounding areas. A 30% chance of thunderstorms also returns Sunday.
Residents should monitor forecast updates for Friday’s potential severe weather and prepare for increasing heat over the weekend. Stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day and ensure you have multiple ways to receive weather warnings if severe storms develop.
Four-Day Forecast for Grand Forks, North Dakota
- Thursday: High 82–88°, mostly sunny and breezy.
- Friday: High 85–93°, chance of afternoon and evening thunderstorms, some could become severe.
- Saturday: High 87–96°, sunny, hot and humid.
- Sunday: High 90–99°, hot and humid with a 30% chance of thunderstorms and heat index values 93–103°.
