North Dakota braces for another surge of harsh winter conditions this morning as blowing snow sweeps across open country and spreads quick, unpredictable visibility drops. A cold gray sky hangs low across the Red River Valley, and wind streaks loose powder across highways like thin smoke drifting over the pavement.
Blowing and drifting snow continue to cause scattered travel impacts across eastern North Dakota, especially along I-29, US-2, and rural corridors east and west of Grand Forks. Gusts lift snow into sudden curtains, making it difficult to see farther than a few car lengths in exposed stretches. Drivers should slow early, leave extra stopping distance, and expect rapid changes as winds pick up through midday.
Meteorologists now note that blizzard conditions are unlikely, but drifting snow persists into the afternoon with a gradual weakening trend. Even so, open farmland and elevated roadways will remain vulnerable to intermittent whiteouts. Plan extra time if you must travel today, especially on long rural runs where plowed snow piles catch the wind easily.
The next threat arrives fast: hazardous wind chills begin today, pushing “feels-like” values well below zero and setting a harsh tone for the weekend. Bitter air will settle in after sunset, increasing frostbite risk for anyone caught outside without adequate layers. Keep hats, gloves, and emergency supplies in vehicles, and bring pets indoors as temperatures fall.
Model guidance signals a steadier pattern late in the weekend, though cold air holds on. Light snow chances return by midweek as the broader arctic trough reloads.
