Grand Forks, North Dakota – Comfortable weather across eastern North Dakota will quickly give way to building heat as temperatures climb into the upper 80s and 90s heading into the weekend. Forecasters are also monitoring the potential for thunderstorms Friday afternoon and evening as a weak cold front approaches the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, highs today will range from 76 to 81 degrees under partly cloudy skies with west winds of 5 to 15 mph developing during the afternoon. Warmer air arrives Thursday, pushing temperatures into the low to upper 80s, with some communities nearing 90 degrees as southwest winds increase to 12 to 25 mph.
The hottest weather arrives Friday and Saturday. Highs are expected to reach 87 to 94 degrees Friday before climbing to 87 to 98 degrees Saturday, accompanied by increasing humidity that could push heat index values and Wet Bulb Globe Temperatures into hazardous ranges, especially for those working or exercising outdoors.
A weak frontal boundary is expected to trigger late afternoon and evening thunderstorms Friday, with the highest chances across northern portions of eastern North Dakota and the Red River Valley. Communities including Grand Forks, Grafton, Devils Lake, Langdon and surrounding areas should monitor forecasts for changing conditions as storms develop.
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces and limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. While widespread severe weather is not indicated in this outlook, lightning and gusty winds will be possible with any thunderstorms that form Friday.
Five-Day Forecast for Grand Forks, North Dakota
- Wednesday: Partly cloudy. High 76–81°F.
- Thursday: Partly cloudy and warmer. High 83–90°F, low 55–60°F.
- Friday: Partly cloudy, warm and more humid with a chance of late afternoon and evening thunderstorms. High 87–94°F, low 64–68°F.
- Saturday: Sunny and hot. High 87–98°F, low 65–72°F.
