National Weather Service Weather Forecast Office

The past 2 months have been very warm, and generally very dry across the Red River Valley Region. But how warm, is warm? Below are the top 10 warmest average temperature from November 1st to January 7th. The data speak for themselves. Based on the preliminary dataset, it is the warmest period at all three of the regular climate sites: the Grand Forks Airport, the Fargo Area and the University of North Dakota / NWS Climate Station.

How much longer will this last? It would appear the overall trend for above normal temperatures will continue into midweek, then a trend towards more normal temperatures as we get into mid January. Beyond that, even cooler weather may be on tap - but it's way too early to tell!

Below are preliminary data, subject to change.

GRAND FORKS INTL AP (KGFK)
Extremes Highest Average Average Temperature degrees F
Days: 11/1 - 1/7
Length of period: 68 days
Years: 1850-2012

Rank  Value  Ending Date
  1    26.5    2012
  2    25.2    2007
  3    25.1    2002,  2000
  5    22.7    1995
  6    22.6    2006
  7    22.5    1975
  8    22.4    1983
  9    22.2    1980,  2003

Fargo Area  (ThreadEx Station)
Extremes Highest Average Average Temperature degrees F
Days: 11/1 - 1/7
Length of period: 68 days
Years: 1850-2012

Rank  Value  Ending Date
  1    29.2    2012
  2    28.3    2007
  3    28.1    2002
  4    27.9    2000,  1914
  6    26.9    1940
  7    25.7    1932,  1955
  9    25.6    1924,  1963

This station's record may include data from more than one, possibly incompatible, locations. It reflects the longest available record for the Fargo Area.

GRAND FORKS UNIV (323621)
Extremes Highest Average Average Temperature degrees F
Days: 11/1 - 1/7
Length of period: 68 days
Years: 1850-2012

Rank  Value  Ending Date
  1    26.5    2012
  2    26.2    1914
  3    25.2    2007
  4    25.1    2002,  2000
  6    24.1    1924
  7    23.4    1908
  8    23.3    1955
  9    22.8    1963
 10    22.7    1995