Grand Forks, North Dakota – Strong winds could whip up drifting snow across the northern Red River Valley by midmorning Friday, reducing visibility and making travel hazardous through the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday for Kittson and Roseau counties in Minnesota and Cavalier and Pembina counties in North Dakota. Northwest winds are expected to gust as high as 45 mph, strong enough to loft loose snow and create brief visibility drops in open country.
Communities including Langdon, Cavalier, Drayton, Hallock and Roseau may see blowing and drifting snow along rural highways and exposed stretches of U.S. Highway 75 and North Dakota Highway 5. While widespread new snowfall is not expected, existing snowpack can shift quickly under 45 mph gusts.
Drivers should use caution in open areas, reduce speed and keep headlights on during visibility drops. High-profile vehicles may also experience difficult crosswinds.
Winds are expected to ease after 7 p.m., but drifting could continue in rural areas into Friday night. Additional travel advisories may be issued if conditions worsen.
