Grand Forks, North Dakota – Isolated to scattered severe thunderstorms could impact parts of North Dakota between 5 p.m. and midnight Thursday, with damaging winds up to 75 mph posing the main threat. Storms are expected to form in the western portion of the state before organizing into a more intense complex as they track east overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, the greatest risk lies in counties like Williams, McKenzie, and Ward, where storms may initially pop up before expanding into a broader system. The threat zone includes Devils Lake, Minot, and into the Red River Valley by late evening.
Forecasters say confidence is low in the exact path and timing of this evolving system, but high winds remain the top concern, especially once storms merge into a line after sunset. Hail up to ping-pong ball size is also possible, but tornado chances appear low.
Drivers and residents across central and eastern North Dakota should secure outdoor items, limit evening travel, and stay tuned to emergency alerts. Ensure phones are charged and warnings are enabled.
Storm impacts may linger into early Friday morning. Additional advisories could be issued as storm models update.
