Get ready to batten down the hatches, North Dakota. The National Weather Service is sounding the alarm for a severe thunderstorm packing damaging wind gusts that could rattle the state Friday night.
As of now, a severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for parts of the Peace Garden State, with scattered winds and isolated gusts potentially hitting a whopping 75 MPH. That's strong enough to knock down tree limbs, send street signs flying, and turn a casual evening into a white-knuckle ride.
What to Expect
The NWS says widely scattered to scattered severe thunderstorms are forecast to develop and intensify this afternoon and evening over central and eastern North Dakota. A few supercells could pose a risk for large to very large hail and severe gusts, and the threat for those gusty winds may become more prevalent as the evening wears on.
The severe thunderstorm watch area stretches roughly along and 75 statute miles north and south of a line from 30 miles west of Bismarck to 60 miles northeast of Jamestown. The warning will stay in effect until 11 p.m. CT, so anyone in that zone should stay weather-aware.
Safety First
The NWS shared some crucial safety tips for riding out this windy storm. The safest place to be is indoors. If a wind advisory or high wind warning has been issued, postpone any outdoor activities. If you do get caught outside, take cover next to a building or under a shelter. Stay clear of roadways or train tracks—a sudden gust could blow you into the path of an oncoming vehicle. Use handrails on outdoor walkways and avoid elevated areas like roofs without adequate railing. Watch for flying debris, including tree limbs and loose street signs, and keep an eye on nearby balconies for objects that might fall.
This comes on the heels of a baseball-sized hail threat that also targeted North Dakota and Minnesota, showing that this region has been in the crosshairs of severe weather recently.
Stay Safe Friday Night
With gusts that could rival a tropical storm, it's a good idea to secure any loose items around your property and stay tuned to local weather updates. The NWS is urging everyone in the affected area to take this warning seriously. For more on how to prepare for extreme weather, check out our guide on monsoonal thunderstorm alerts that have put other states on high alert.
Remember, no game or outdoor activity is worth risking your safety. Stay indoors, stay informed, and stay safe this Friday night.
