Grand Forks begins Monday in a relatively quiet weather pattern, but attention is already turning to a strong system expected late Wednesday through Thursday that could bring snow, strong north winds, and blowing snow to eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota.
According to the National Weather Service, there is currently a 70% chance of advisory-level winter impacts with this system and a 20% chance of warning-level impacts, which could include near-blizzard conditions. While confidence is growing that impacts will occur, forecasters stress that details remain uncertain, including how much snow will fall, where the heaviest bands develop, and how strong winds ultimately become.
One key factor early in the week will be warming temperatures on Tuesday and Wednesday, with highs climbing above freezing. This mild stretch is expected to cause the existing snowpack to crust over, which could limit blowing snow in areas that receive little or no new snowfall. However, if fresh snow falls Wednesday night into Thursday, blowing and drifting could quickly become a major issue, especially in open country.
Strong north winds are likely behind the system, and even modest snowfall amounts could lead to reduced visibility, hazardous travel, and rapidly changing road conditions. Rural highways and east–west roads would be most susceptible to travel impacts.
For now, Monday and Tuesday offer a window to prepare and plan ahead. Residents should monitor forecast updates, especially if travel is planned midweek. Emergency kits, winter survival gear, and flexible travel plans are strongly encouraged.
