Fargo, ND – A powerful Arctic outbreak will hammer the Dakotas from November 28–30, producing heavy snow, blizzard conditions, and bitter cold through the Black Friday weekend. The system will combine strong winds with lake and plains moisture, creating dangerous travel and life-threatening wind chills.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Bismarck, ND, and Aberdeen, SD, a moderate to high risk of heavy snow is in effect for much of North and South Dakota late Friday into Saturday. Forecast models show 6–12 inches of snow possible in northern and central North Dakota, with 4–8 inches likely across eastern South Dakota. Winds gusting 40–50 mph may cause blowing and drifting snow, dropping visibility to near zero at times and closing portions of I-94, I-29, and U.S. 281.
According to the North Dakota Department of Transportation, hazardous travel is expected across much of the region, particularly Friday night into Saturday morning. Motorists are urged to avoid nonessential travel and to carry winter emergency kits, as temperatures and visibility will fall rapidly behind the Arctic front.
Wind chills of –10°F to –25°F are expected through the weekend, making frostbite possible in minutes. Residents should prepare for potential power outages, protect livestock, and ensure generators are in working order before the coldest air arrives Sunday.
