Low-Pressure System Brings Rain, Gusty Winds to Fargo
Heavy rain and strong winds sweep the Northern Plains, with Election Day Tuesday also under a First Alert.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Forecasts
A potent low-pressure system is bringing several days of rain, gloomy skies, and gusty winds to the Northern Plains. Monday is a First Alert Weather Day with the heaviest rainfall and east winds gusting 25-35 mph, while Election Day Tuesday carries lingering rain and northerly gusts.
Why it matters
The system's rainfall totals vary sharply across the region, with more than 2 inches in parts of the Red River Valley and under 1 inch to the north and west. Fargo residents face a wet, windy stretch with temperatures dropping from the 50s into the 40s and 30s later in the week.
The forecast draws on First Alert Weather Day designations for Monday and Tuesday, with rain totals reaching 2 inches in the central and southern valley and 2-3+ inches over three days in the southern valley and west-central Minnesota. Projections beyond Tuesday remain subject to change as the low-pressure system moves through the region.
The details
Monday brings the heaviest rain and east winds gusting 25-35 mph, with Fargo's high near 58 degrees. Election Day Tuesday features lingering light to steady rain and northerly gusts above 30 mph in the morning, with a high of 48 and a low of 44 degrees.
Timeline
Monday, November 2, 2026: First Alert Weather Day with heaviest rain and strong winds.
Tuesday, November 3, 2026: Election Day First Alert with lingering rain and northerly gusts.
Wednesday, November 4, 2026: Morning showers in Minnesota before the system departs in the afternoon.
Weekend of November 7-8, 2026: Temperatures rebound near 50 with mostly cloudy skies.
Seasonal Patterns
Cold-season low-pressure systems crossing the Northern Plains in early November are a recurring feature of the region's autumn climatology, and this event's multi-day rain totals fall within the range typically associated with such systems. The forecast's drop from the 50s to the 30s marks the seasonal cooling that follows the warm spell of early November.
Residents planning Election Day travel should expect wet roads and gusty northerly winds Tuesday morning. Drivers and pedestrians should allow extra time and watch for reduced visibility during the heaviest rainfall on Monday.
The takeaway
Check forecasts before heading out on Monday and Tuesday, since the system's rainfall totals and wind gusts vary considerably across the region. Plan for cooler temperatures in the 40s later in the week.
Further reading
For the latest outlook, see Forecasts for Fargo conditions.
