Mother Nature’s Fourth of July fireworks are starting early this year, as severe thunderstorms are expected to develop across northern Minnesota Friday afternoon and potentially last into the evening.
At 2 p.m., the National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm watch for areas from the eastern Dakotas across the northern third of Minnesota. The watch is in effect until 9 p.m. and includes cities such as Fargo, Grand Forks, Bemidji, Brainerd, Grand Rapids, and Duluth.
What to Expect
The storms will be capable of producing:
Hail up to 2 inches in diameter
Winds up to 70 mph
Frequent lightning
Additionally, there’s a non-zero threat for tornadoes with the strongest cells. NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center expects thunderstorm coverage to increase along a cold front moving through northern Minnesota, eastern North Dakota, and north-central South Dakota.
Primary Risks
Damaging wind gusts will be the primary threat, but large to very large hail could also occur, particularly in north-central/northeast Minnesota.
Storm Timeline
According to the HRRR model, storms are expected to evolve as follows:
3 p.m. to 9 p.m.: Severe storms will begin to develop, with the risk of large hail, gusty winds, and frequent lightning increasing through the afternoon.
9 p.m. to 3 a.m.: Storms may continue through the night, particularly impacting areas of Minnesota and North Dakota.
Safety Tips
Stay indoors during severe storms, especially if hail or high winds are expected.
Avoid driving through flooded or debris-covered roads.
Keep an eye on the weather and heed any warnings or advisories that may be issued throughout the evening.
Enjoy your Fourth of July, but stay safe and be prepared for these intense storms!
