North Dakota – Light snowflakes begin to drift across Grand Forks, but a much stronger system is lining up that could quickly turn roads snow-covered and visibility sharply reduced within the next day.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect beginning Friday afternoon through late Saturday night. Snow totals are expected to reach between 3 and 8 inches, with wind gusts up to 35 mph creating blowing snow and difficult travel .
Across eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, including East Grand Forks, Crookston, and Thief River Falls, conditions will deteriorate quickly as snowfall rates increase. Travel along I-29 and Highway 2 could become hazardous, especially by Friday evening when snow intensity peaks.
Winds will play a major role. Gusts near 35 mph may reduce visibility and create drifting snow across open areas. Drivers should prepare for sudden whiteout conditions and consider delaying non-essential travel during peak snowfall periods.
Temperatures hover in the 30s initially, allowing some mixing early, but colder air will lock in, ensuring most precipitation falls as snow. Roads that briefly melt during the day could refreeze, leading to slick conditions and increased crash risk.
Looking ahead, conditions improve by Sunday as sunshine returns and highs climb into the 40s. The first weekend of April ends on a calmer note, with a gradual warming trend continuing into next week.
Five Day Outlook for Grand Forks, North Dakota
Friday: High 37°F, snow developing
Saturday: High 36°F, heavy snow and breezy
Sunday: Partly sunny, high 41°F
Monday: Mostly sunny, high 30°F
Tuesday: Partly sunny, high 37°F
