Grand Forks, North Dakota – Snow-covered highways and wind-driven drifts are creating dangerous travel conditions across eastern North Dakota this morning, with impacts intensifying through midnight Wednesday as heavy, wet snow continues to fall.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from 6 a.m. Wednesday until 12 a.m. Thursday for much of northeast North Dakota and the northern Red River Valley. Snowfall totals of 5 to 10 inches are expected in the warning area, with localized amounts near 12 inches. Southeast North Dakota and west-central Minnesota, including Fargo and Wahpeton, are under a Winter Weather Advisory with 2 to 6 inches expected.
Across Grand Forks, Grafton, Langdon and Devils Lake, steady snow will continue through the day with north winds increasing to 15 to 25 mph. Gusts could top 35 mph, leading to drifting snow along I-29, US-2 and rural county roads. Visibility may drop below a half mile at times, especially in open country.
In Fargo, Valley City and Wahpeton, snowfall rates are lighter but roads along I-94 and Highway 13 remain snow-packed and slick. Temperatures falling into the teens west of the Red River Valley tonight could trigger a flash freeze where slush remains, increasing the risk of black ice for the Thursday morning commute.
Officials urge drivers to delay nonessential travel, slow down on bridges and overpasses, and keep emergency kits in vehicles. Charge mobile devices and monitor local updates as additional advisories may be issued through Wednesday night.
