Fargo, ND – Blizzard conditions are possible across Fargo and much of eastern North Dakota beginning late Wednesday night, as strong winds combine with light snowfall to create dangerous travel conditions through Thursday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Grand Forks, Bismarck, and Aberdeen, multiple Winter Storm Watches are now in effect across large portions of North Dakota, northwest Minnesota, and parts of South Dakota. While snowfall totals are expected to remain relatively modest — generally between 1 and 4 inches — wind gusts could reach 50 to 65 mph, significantly reducing visibility.
Forecasters say the greatest risk comes from widespread blowing snow, which could cause near-whiteout conditions, especially in open and rural areas. Visibility may drop below one-quarter mile at times, making travel extremely dangerous or impossible. The highest confidence for blizzard conditions is along and north of Highway 200, including areas near Fargo, Grand Forks, Devils Lake, and the Red River Valley.
The hazardous conditions are expected to impact the Wednesday night, Thursday morning, and Thursday evening commutes. Strong winds may also cause tree damage and sporadic power outages, particularly where ice or freezing rain briefly develops before snowfall begins in some locations.
In parts of North Dakota, wind chills could plunge as low as 35 below zero Thursday morning, increasing the risk for frostbite and exposure if travel becomes stranded. In northeastern Minnesota, snow totals may reach up to 4 inches, with blowing snow remaining the primary concern.
The National Weather Service urges residents to prepare for possible blizzard conditions, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor forecast updates closely. Watches may be upgraded to Blizzard Warnings as confidence increases in the timing and severity of impacts.
