North Dakota Weather Alert: Hard Freeze Follows 50 MPH Winds Across Northern Plains
BISMARCK, NORTH DAKOTA — Northern and central North Dakota are bracing for a sharp temperature drop and the season’s first widespread hard freeze following an evening of powerful winds that reached up to 50 mph. The National Weather Service in Bismarck said a Wind Advisory remains in effect until midnight, followed by a Freeze Warning lasting through 10 a.m. Monday.
Strong Winds and Travel Impacts
Forecasters say winds from the west will continue gusting around 30 to 50 mph through the evening, causing difficult travel along U.S. Highway 2 and U.S. 52, especially for high-profile vehicles.
According to the National Weather Service, the advisory area includes Divide, Williams, Ward, McHenry, Pierce, and Foster counties, encompassing cities such as Minot, Rugby, Williston, and Carrington.
The gusty conditions are expected to ease overnight as a cold high-pressure system moves into the region, ushering in much colder, calmer weather to start the week.
Freeze Warning and Precautions
Temperatures are expected to plummet into the mid-20s by sunrise, bringing a hard freeze that could damage unharvested crops and outdoor vegetation. Widespread frost is likely across much of central and northern North Dakota.
Residents are urged to bring pets indoors, cover sensitive plants, and disconnect garden hoses to prevent freezing pipes. Farmers have also been advised to protect remaining produce and machinery from the expected overnight chill.
Outlook for the Week Ahead
After the cold start Monday morning, temperatures will slowly rebound but remain well below seasonal averages. Afternoon highs are forecast to reach only the low 40s, with continued chilly breezes making it feel even colder.
Meteorologists say the cold snap marks a decisive shift toward late-fall conditions across the northern Plains. The transition from mild October days to subfreezing mornings serves as an early reminder that winter weather is fast approaching for the Dakotas.
Stay connected with NapervilleLocal.com for continuing weather alerts, freeze updates, and seasonal preparedness coverage across the Midwest and Great Plains.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.