Bismarck faced historic flooding on September’s wettest day in 31 years, as a rare tornado outbreak swept across the Dakotas and left parts of the city underwater.
More than 20 tornadoes were reported across South and North Dakota during a mid-September severe weather outbreak. While Bismarck was spared a direct tornado strike, the city experienced an unprecedented downpour—over 50 millimeters of rain fell in less than an hour. The intense rainfall caused flash flooding that swamped streets, stranded cars, and damaged property.
Downtown Bismarck businesses saw water intrusion, and several underpasses became impassable, forcing police to block off traffic. Emergency crews worked late into the night to rescue drivers stuck in rising waters. Residents in neighborhoods near low-lying areas reported water filling basements and overflowing storm drains.
Local meteorologists noted that this was Bismarck’s wettest September day since 1994, underscoring the unusual severity of the storm.
While cleanup continues, Bismarck residents are already rallying together. Volunteers have stepped in to help downtown businesses pump out water, and the city is reviewing stormwater drainage improvements. Officials urge drivers to avoid flooded areas in future storms: “Turn around, don’t drown.”
Bismarck’s resilience is on full display—reminding the community that in the face of rare disasters, neighbors are the strongest safety net.
