On July 6, 1936, the temperature in Fargo-Moorhead reached a scorching 114 degrees, with the highest recorded temperature at the Moorhead office of the U.S. Weather Bureau. This office, now the National Weather Service, was located in the Federal Building on Main Avenue in Moorhead at the time. Coincidentally, Hector International Airport also recorded a high temperature of 115 degrees on the same day, although this data was not officially part of the Fargo climate record at the time. The North Dakota state temperature record for that day was set in Steele at 121 degrees.
John Wheeler, Chief Meteorologist for WDAY, has been in his position since 1985. Wheeler’s passion for weather and climate was shaped by his upbringing in the South and his family’s move to the Midwest. After studying meteorology at Iowa State University, he worked briefly in central Iowa before relocating to Fargo and joining WDAY.
The historical weather data from the 1936 heatwave showcases the extreme temperatures that can occur in the region. With advancements in technology and meteorological practices, such as the establishment of more weather stations like the one at Hector International Airport, weather tracking and forecasting have become more accurate and reliable. Wheeler’s expertise and experience in meteorology contribute to keeping the Fargo-Moorhead community informed and safe during weather events.
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Photo credit www.grandforksherald.com