East Grand Forks, MN – Drivers and residents in northwest Minnesota should prepare for a stormy stretch beginning Friday, with evening thunderstorms and elevated travel risks through the weekend. The National Weather Service warns that showers and storms could arrive early Friday and intensify into the evening, pushing moisture across the Red River Valley and increasing the chance of localized flooding on low-lying roads.
The upcoming system will produce breezy conditions and pockets of heavy rain that could disrupt evening plans and make routes like Highway 2 and Interstate 29 slick. Residents are urged to monitor updates, charge devices, and allow extra time for travel from Sept. 12–15.
How the storm will develop
According to forecasts, showers and thunderstorms could develop after 1 a.m. Friday and intensify through the evening as south winds pull moisture into the valley. Gusts near 25 mph and periods of heavy downpours are possible, though overall rainfall totals are expected to be light — with the risk concentrated for localized flooding on low-lying roads and poor drainage areas.
“Showers and thunderstorms could develop after 1 a.m. Friday and intensify through the evening.” — National Weather Service
Travel impacts and safety advice
Evening commuters should be particularly cautious. Storms that move in late Friday could reduce visibility and create slick pavement on major corridors.
- Allow extra time when driving on Highway 2 and I-29.
- Watch for standing water on low-lying roads; avoid flooded stretches.
- Keep phones charged and enable weather alerts to receive updates.
- Expect gusts near 25 mph that could affect high-profile vehicles.
Weekend timeline and forecast highlights
The next several days are expected to feature variable conditions:
- Friday: High near 83°F. Storms likely after 1 p.m., breezy southeast winds.
- Saturday: High near 83°F. Mostly sunny during the day; rain chances increase at night.
- Sunday: High near 85°F. Afternoon storms possible; 40% chance of showers through the evening.
- Monday: High near 81°F. Scattered showers and thunderstorms linger.
- Tuesday: High near 83°F. Partly sunny with isolated storms possible.
What residents should do next
Local emergency managers recommend staying informed and taking simple precautions to reduce risk:
- Sign up for local weather notifications and listen to the National Weather Service.
- Secure outdoor items that could be tossed by gusty winds.
- Avoid driving through standing water; turn around, don’t drown.
- Plan travel to avoid peak storm windows if possible.
Implications for the week ahead
While the most impactful weather is expected Friday through Sunday, rain chances will linger into Monday before tapering midweek. Expect more sunshine returning by Tuesday and Wednesday, with only isolated shower threats after that.
Key takeaways:
- Storms likely beginning Friday night, with gusty winds and heavy downpours possible.
- Localized flooding on low-lying roads is the primary concern despite light overall rainfall totals.
- Travelers should prepare for delays on Highway 2 and I-29 and adjust plans accordingly.
What do you plan to do to prepare for the storm? Have you experienced road issues near Highway 2 during past storms? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.
