Storm reports from the National Weather Service include a funnel cloud that touched down near Trotters in Golden Valley County and another tornado near South Heart in Stark County. Both occurred in rural areas.

Strong winds were also reported throughout southwestern North Dakota, including a gust of 90 mph (143 km/h) near Dickinson, where tree damage was reported. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration classifies winds greater than 73 mph (117 km/h) as a hurricane.

Hail up to 1.25 inches in size has also been reported in the region, along with heavy rain in some areas. The region could use it – the southwestern part of the state is unusually dry or experiencing moderate drought, according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor map released Thursday. The Drought Monitor is a partnership between NOAA, the National Drought Mitigation Center and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

According to the weather service, 0.65 inches of rain fell in Bismarck on Thursday. The city has received 9.15 inches of rainfall for the year, 0.44 inches above average. The region does not fall into any drought category.

The National Agricultural Statistics Service's weekly crop report shows that North Dakota's topsoil moisture supply is 88% adequate to surplus and 87% of subsoil moisture supply falls into those categories. Most crops in the state are rated fair to good. Pasture and rangeland conditions are also largely rated in those categories and livestock water supply is 87% adequate to surplus.

The weather forecast for the weekend calls for mostly sunny weather and pleasant temperatures around 70 degrees. However, severe weather, including heavy hail and damaging winds, is expected in the western half of North Dakota on Sunday evening, meteorologists said.