Grand Forks, ND – A stretch of wet, unsettled fall weather is expected to impact the Red River Valley over the next several days, with multiple rounds of showers expected from Wednesday night through Friday. Residents in Grand Forks and surrounding areas should brace for damp commutes, slick rural roads, and strong gusty winds as the system moves through.
Weather Overview: Unsettled Fall Conditions
Rain will begin spreading into East Grand Forks by late Wednesday evening, potentially causing damp roads and hazardous driving conditions. According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, rain chances are expected to exceed 70 percent Wednesday night, continuing through Thursday and Friday. With temperatures hovering in the upper 50s to low 60s, the weather will certainly feel like a typical fall day.
Midweek, winds will pick up from the southeast, gusting at near 20 mph before turning southwest and strengthening by Friday. Forecasters are predicting isolated thunderstorms Thursday afternoon, which may bring locally heavier rain in certain areas.
Impacts on Travel and Outdoor Activities
The wet conditions may cause issues for commuters, especially during the Thursday morning and evening rush. Roads, particularly along U.S. Highway 2 and I-29, will likely remain wet for long periods due to the slow-moving system. While no flooding impacts are currently expected, drivers should allow extra travel time and be cautious on rural roads.
Outdoor workers and high school football teams will also need to prepare for damp turf and cooler air. Winds are expected to gust up to 25 mph on Friday, so residents should secure lightweight decorations and trash bins to prevent them from being blown away.
By Friday night, temperatures will dip into the lower 40s, with mostly cloudy skies and continued rain. The persistent cloud cover will keep temperatures from rising, capping highs near the upper 50s to low 60s through the weekend. Residents should expect cooler, unsettled conditions to persist.
Drier Weather on the Horizon
According to weather forecasters, a drier pattern is expected to emerge by late Saturday into Sunday, offering a brief respite with some sunshine before clouds begin to increase again early next week. So, while this week brings a lot of wet weather, a window of better conditions is in sight for the weekend.
Five-Day Forecast for Grand Forks, ND:
- Tue: 48/41 – Cloudy with scattered light showers late.
- Wed: 56/48 – Mostly cloudy; rain developing by evening.
- Thu: 63/51 – Showers and possible thunder; breezy conditions.
- Fri: 60/41 – On-and-off rain with gusty southwest winds.
- Sat: 53/37 – Partly sunny with turning drier and cooler conditions.
Call to Action
How are you preparing for the fall weather in Grand Forks? Share your tips or thoughts in the comments below.
