Bismarck, ND – Much of North Dakota and surrounding areas face a heightened risk for severe weather Thursday, as forecasters warn of dangerous storms capable of producing tornadoes, very large hail, and damaging winds. The NOAA Storm Prediction Center says the threat will build through the afternoon and continue into the night, urging residents across the Upper Midwest to stay alert.
Scattered severe thunderstorms are expected to develop this afternoon over parts of Montana and western North Dakota before tracking eastward through the evening. Some storms could evolve into powerful supercells, with the potential to produce hailstones over 2 inches in diameter, wind gusts exceeding 75 mph, and a few tornadoes.
Later tonight, the risk for widespread damaging winds is forecast to increase as storms organize and move through the Northern Plains. The highest threat areas include central and eastern North Dakota—stretching from Bismarck and Minot to Fargo and Grand Forks—as well as parts of northern South Dakota and western Minnesota.
Meteorologists stress the importance of monitoring forecasts closely and being ready to take shelter if warnings are issued. Outdoor plans should be reconsidered, and residents are encouraged to have multiple ways to receive alerts, including mobile notifications, weather radios, and local broadcasts.
“Continue to monitor forecasts for the latest information and updates to the risk areas. Be prepared to take action if watches and warnings are issued for your area,” the Storm Prediction Center said in its Thursday outlook.
For up-to-date radar imagery and severe weather alerts, visit spc.noaa.gov or tune in to local news and radio stations. With large hail, high winds, and tornado potential on the table, today’s storms could be among the strongest of the season, making early preparation key to staying safe.
