Fargo, ND – Emergency officials across North Dakota are urging residents to begin preparing today for potential ice storms this winter, stressing that freezing rain—though less frequent than snow—can cause far more disruptive and dangerous conditions. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), ice accumulation can snap branches, down powerlines, and make travel extremely hazardous across Eastern and Central North Dakota.
According to NOAA, even modest ice buildup is enough to overload weakened branches and threaten infrastructure, particularly in rural areas where long stretches of powerline run unshielded. Ice can create treacherous travel conditions along major corridors, including I-29, I-94, Highway 2, and Highway 10. With temperatures expected to fluctuate during early and mid-season storms, officials say today is the ideal time for residents to begin winter preparations.
According to the National Weather Service, homeowners should start by trimming weak or damaged limbs around homes, garages, barns, and driveways. These branches often fall first once ice begins to form. NOAA also warns residents not to raise windshield wipers before storms, as they can freeze to the glass and snap; keeping them lowered and covered is recommended.
Officials encourage families to keep at least a week’s supply of non-perishable food, bottled water, and essential prescriptions. Ice storms can trigger prolonged outages across the region and block rural roads for extended periods. Residents are also urged not to park vehicles beneath trees, where ice-coated branches may fall suddenly.
To prepare for potential power loss, emergency managers recommend fully charging phones, flashlights, power banks, and essential devices today. Homeowners who use generators should safely store extra gasoline and conduct a test run to ensure equipment is functioning properly. Stocking rock salt or ice melt can also help reduce slip hazards around entrances and walkways.
“Ice storms can be extremely disruptive across North Dakota,” the NWS said. “Preparing today is the best way to stay safe this winter.”
