Grand Forks, North Dakota – A snow squall warning is in effect for eastern North Dakota, bringing sudden whiteout conditions and hazardous travel through 3 PM CST Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, a fast-moving band of heavy snow is producing sharply reduced visibility and slick road conditions along Interstate 29 and portions of U.S. Highway 2.
Forecasters describe snow squalls as short-lived but intense bursts of snowfall that can quickly reduce visibility to near zero. Officials warn that conditions can deteriorate within minutes, creating life-threatening travel hazards. The warning remains active until 3 PM CST Friday, Feb. 27, 2026.
The primary threats include whiteout conditions in heavy blowing snow and dangerous road surfaces. The affected area includes Grand Forks and surrounding communities, where rapidly changing conditions may impact both local and highway traffic.
The Weather Service urges motorists to delay or avoid travel during the warning period. Drivers who must be on the road are advised to slow down, increase following distance, and use headlights. Sudden drops in visibility may make it difficult to see stopped vehicles or lane markings.
Snow squalls differ from winter storm systems because they develop quickly and typically last less than an hour in any one location, similar in intensity to summer thunderstorms.
Travelers along I-29 and U.S. 2, including student and commuter traffic, may experience abrupt slowdowns as visibility shifts rapidly.
The National Weather Service continues to monitor conditions and will issue updates as necessary.
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