Dickinson, ND – Severe thunderstorms are threatening western North Dakota counties, including Stark, Bowman, and McKenzie, until midnight Sunday. The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch due to the risk of damaging winds and possible power outages across the region.
Affected Areas:
Counties Under Watch: Adams, Billings, Bowman, Dunn, Golden Valley, Hettinger, McKenzie, Slope, and Stark counties.
Cities at Risk: Dickinson, Bowman, and surrounding communities.
Hazardous Conditions:
Damaging Winds: Gusts could exceed 60 mph, potentially causing downed trees, power lines, and property damage.
Frequent Lightning: Likely to increase the risk of fires and power disruptions.
Travel Hazards: I-94 and US-85 could face low visibility and ponding on roads due to heavy rain.
Power Outages: The threat of downed power lines and trees could lead to outages. Residents are advised to charge devices and stay updated on local alerts.
Safety Tips:
Avoid Travel: Stay off the roads if possible, as quickly changing weather could cause hazardous driving conditions, especially during storms.
Secure Outdoor Items: High winds could blow objects around. Bring in or secure any loose items.
Stay Informed: Keep your cell phone charged and monitor local weather updates for potential power outages and storm warnings.
The Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until midnight Sunday. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and stay alert for additional warnings or advisories as storms progress eastward. Keep updated on local alerts for the latest information.