North Dakota – Snow squeaks underfoot and exposed skin burns within minutes as brutal Arctic air settles over the northern Red River Valley. The cold is not subtle. It is sharp, dangerous, and already disrupting daily routines.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect until midday Friday, followed by an Extreme Cold Watch from Friday afternoon through Sunday morning. Wind chills as low as 50 to 55 degrees below zero are possible, creating life-threatening conditions with frostbite on exposed skin in as little as five minutes.
Early morning temperatures sit near 5 degrees below zero at Grand Forks International Airport, with steady north winds pushing wind chills into the minus 40s and lower. Light snow and blowing snow may briefly reduce visibility, but the cold itself poses the greatest threat.
Conditions impact northeastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, including Grand Forks, East Grand Forks, Crookston, Hallock, Thief River Falls, and surrounding rural communities. Travel remains possible, but any breakdown or exposure becomes dangerous fast. Drivers should carry winter survival kits and keep phones fully charged.
Later today, flurries taper, but temperatures continue to fall. By evening, readings drop toward 25 below zero, with wind chills approaching 45 below. Friday remains bitter, with highs near 12 below and limited wind relief.
The cold persists into the weekend. Saturday and Sunday bring sunshine but little warmth, with highs struggling near zero and nighttime lows plunging into the mid-20s below. Wind chills remain hazardous, especially during early mornings and after sunset.
Some moderation arrives early next week. Monday climbs near 10 degrees, with gradual warming continuing into Tuesday, though cold remains entrenched by seasonal standards.
Residents should dress in full winter protection, limit time outdoors, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Experiencing the cold firsthand today? Share what conditions feel like where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for Grand Forks, North Dakota
Today: Slight snow chance, cold, high near -8.
Friday: Sunny and bitterly cold, high near -12.
Saturday: Partly sunny, high near -4.
Sunday: Sunny, high near -9.
Monday: Partly sunny, high near 10.
