Good morning, Bismarck.

Extreme winds from Friday night's storms overturned semis along Interstate 94 in eastern North Dakota, affecting Stutsman, Barnes & Cass counties; troopers responded quickly to clear the roadway and guide motorists.

Severe thunderstorms that swept eastern North Dakota late Friday and early Saturday spawned tornadoes that killed three people and damaged homes while cutting power for thousands; Bismarck crews addressed immediate hazards and cleanup will begin on Monday—authorities are surveying damage and checking on residents.

Three artists have been chosen for the 2025 Artist in Residency Program through North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department and North Dakota Council on the Arts—Ashley Nelson will work on a mural at Cross Ranch State Park from August 4—13, Sabrina Hornung will craft leather at Turtle River State Park from August 10—17, and Angela Mircsov will lead painting workshops at Fort Ransom State Park from June 2—8, 2026.

North Dakota’s colder-than-normal winter and heavy snow cover let pests find refuge inside homes and barns, and pest expert Zachary Smith said residents may soon see more mice, ants, earwigs, spiders, wasps, and mosquitoes this summer.

Smith advised homeowners to seal entry points + clean outdoor attractants to keep pests from turning their homes into a summer retreat.

Forestry and street crews worked overnight removing downed trees and hazards from Bismarck streets after a storm Friday—cleanup efforts across the city will resume on Monday.

Insurance Commissioner Jon Godfread urged Bismarck residents today to inspect their property for damage from last night's severe storm and file insurance claims right away.

He advised documenting damage with photos and videos—securing property with temporary repairs and getting three written estimates to avoid fraudulent contractors.

North Dakota Insurance Commissioner John Godfread advised residents to inspect their homes, farms, and vehicles for storm damage after last night's severe storm.

He warned homeowners to file claims quickly and be cautious of out-of-state contractors who demand upfront cash—he recommends getting three written estimates and working closely with insurers.

CHI St. Alexius’ stroke unit in Bismarck was re-certified as a Primary Stroke Center, meeting national guidelines for fast stroke care + Stroke Unit Coordinator Brannigan Hamrick said the hospital uses regular drills and mock-code strokes to ensure it follows best practices for treating stroke patients.

Science Debunked

6-8 p.m. — North Dakota's Gateway to Science — $25 per person — Test popular myths with hands-on experiments and discover what's fact and what's fiction.

Rock the Deck at Hillside

4:30-8 p.m. — Hillside Aquatic Complex — Regular admission rates apply — Dive into a fun evening of swimming, music, and prizes for incoming middle schoolers.