Grand Forks, ND – Dangerous winter weather is expected to intensify overnight and continue through Thursday across Grand Forks and the northern Red River Valley, as a Blizzard Warning remains in effect with conditions expected to make travel extremely dangerous or impossible.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, blizzard conditions are forecast from 3 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST Thursday for portions of northeast North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, including Grand Forks, East Grand Forks, Fargo, Moorhead, Valley City, and surrounding communities. Farther west, including parts of central North Dakota, blizzard conditions are expected to begin as early as midnight.
Forecasters say total snow accumulations will range from 1 to 4 inches, but the primary danger will come from intense winds gusting up to 70 miles per hour. The combination of falling and blowing snow is expected to create whiteout conditions, drastically reducing visibility and making roads impassable at times. In parts of Minnesota, a light glaze of ice is also possible, further worsening travel conditions.
The hazardous weather is expected to severely impact both the Thursday morning and evening commutes. Strong winds may also cause extensive tree damage and could lead to power outages across the region.
Officials urge residents to avoid all non-emergency travel during the warning period. Those who must travel are advised to carry a winter survival kit and to stay with their vehicle if stranded. Road conditions can change rapidly as visibility drops to near zero.
Residents are encouraged to prepare ahead of time by securing loose outdoor items, charging electronic devices, and monitoring local forecasts and alerts. Updated road conditions can be obtained by calling 511 in North Dakota or Minnesota.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve late Thursday evening as winds begin to subside.
