GRAND FORKS, N.D. — A light snow system and gusty northwest winds are sweeping across eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota this morning, signaling a fresh December cold snap that will deepen as the week progresses.
The National Weather Service in Grand Forks reports light snow developing by midday, with the steadiest bands expected along and south of the Red River Valley through tonight. Though snowfall totals will remain light — typically less than an inch — reduced visibility and slick roadways could make travel hazardous on Highway 2, I-29, and Route 75 late today.
Winds gusting 20–30 mph will combine with falling temperatures to create wind chills near –15°F by tonight. Drivers should expect patchy blowing snow, especially on open stretches of rural highway where snow cover remains from last week’s storm.
Looking ahead, below-average temperatures will lock in through early next week. The coldest stretch arrives Wednesday night into Thursday, when lows plunge near 0°F and wind chills dip between –15°F and –25°F. Meteorologists say another system may bring light snow chances Thursday night into Friday, though no major accumulations are expected.
Residents are urged to bundle up, limit outdoor exposure, and prepare for bitter cold mornings ahead. Car batteries and frostbite risk rise sharply in this kind of early-December chill, especially before sunrise.
Five-Day Local Outlook:
- Today: Cloudy, highs near 22°F, light snow developing.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 6°F; wind chills –15°F.
- Thursday: Chance of light snow, high 22°F.
- Friday: Mostly cloudy, high 23°F.
- Saturday: Slight snow chance, high 21°F.
