A Look at Extreme North Dakota Weather

The location of North Dakota on the Upper Midwest makes it susceptible to experience extreme weather changes. North Dakota weather is known for severe weather. It is there where blizzards, floods, and hail often occur. Other disasters such as drought and tornadoes are likely.

This US state also experiences four seasonal changes and each season is very distinctive from the other. The main source of livelihood there is agriculture. That is why awareness of seasonal changes in the area is necessary in order to be familiar with the best times to plant and harvest crops.

During winter season, extremely freezing temperature is common among these parts. This will create snowfall which comes in precipitation form. This occurs from November to March each year. This form of precipitation usually evolves into blizzards. The temperature of the area can go as low as −60 °F (−51 °C). To give more emphasis to this season, it must be noted that snowfall is not uncommon to the area because it is occurs almost every month except July and August.

The aftermath of this season severely affects the agricultural sector of the state. Many times extreme conditions cause plant diseases and enormous losses in agriculture. Major transitions in weather and climate change occur during the spring season. During the late period of this season, tornado outbreaks are rampant as the temperature begins to moderate. This is one of the riskiest seasons all over the state because of overflowing rivers. These rivers cause floods which is often experienced by North Dakotans.

The Red River Valley during springtime usually overflows heading north into the direction of Canada. This is a common phenomenon in the state. Due to this heavy rain, the water system and infrastructure in the area is also affected.

Another distinctive season in North Dakota is summer. Drastic weather changes of extreme heat and humidity characterizes this season. Droughts tend to occur all over the state which can have both a positive and negative effect. This humid condition in the state lasts from 22 – 34 days which kick off thunderstorms in the meantime.

During April, growing seasons for agricultural industries are completed while harvesting usually takes place from early September through October. This drought-like condition in the area results in absorption of nearly all water in the soil prior to the season. This has a huge impact on the agriculture sector because of the type of soil needed to cultivate.

Autumn in this state is almost a reverse of the spring season. The fast flowing, narrow air current known as the jet stream begins to develop and strengthen. This leads to a quick change of weather that can lead to a variable temperature increase in the area. It is expected to complete the seasonal cycle by late October and November forming winter storms.

According to weather reports, the hottest temperature recorded in North Dakota is 121 °F (49 °C) and the lowest is −60 °F (−51 °C). The average snowfall in the central part of the state is 26 inches and in southern and northern part of the state, the average rainfall is 38 inches.

As reflected in the seasonal change of North Dakota, it can be concluded that the weather changes in the state have a serious impact on the economy and livelihood of its people. Due to the distinctiveness and extremity of the climate in the area, agriculture, mining, infrastructure, and water systems are greatly affected. It must be kept in mind that if greenhouse gasses are not reduced, it can worsen the climate condition which can result into further risk of the economy and livelihood of the area.